Last Minute Lecture

Learning, Memory & Neural Adaptation — Neuroscience for Dummies Chapter 15 Summary Welcome back to Last Minute Lecture ! In this podcast-style summary of Chapter 15 from Neuroscience for Dummies (3rd Edition) , we explore how the brain learns, stores, and retrieves information through neural adaptation. From the formation of long-term memories to memory disorders like amnesia and false memories, this chapter breaks down the neuroscience of learning in a clear and digestible format. How the Brain Learns and Adapts The foundation of learning lies in synaptic plasticity —the brain’s ability to strengthen or weaken neural connections in response to experience. Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) is a primary mechanism behind memory storage, allowing repeated stimulation to enhance the efficiency of synaptic transmission. One of the most vital brain structures for memory is the hippocampus , which consolidates short-term memories into long-term storage. Damage to the hippocampus o...

Emerging Psychiatric Treatments and Safe Medication Discontinuation — Chapter 22 Summary from Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists Chapter 22 of Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists explores two critical themes in modern psychiatric care: the rise of emerging treatments such as ketamine and psychedelics, and the often-overlooked process of safely discontinuing psychotropic medications . With mental health care evolving rapidly, this chapter provides both hope and caution—highlighting new possibilities for treatment-resistant conditions and the importance of tapering medications to avoid serious withdrawal effects. 🎥 Watch the full video breakdown below for a podcast-style summary of this insightful chapter: Ketamine and the NMDA Receptor Revolution Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine is now at the forefront of research into treatment-resistant depression . It functions as an NMDA receptor antagonist , targeting the glutamate system rather than sero...