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Synaptic plasticity is required for learning and follows Hebb's rule, the computational principle underpinning associative learning. In recent years, a complementary type of brain plasticity has been identified in myelinated axons, which make up the majority of brain's white matter. Like synaptic plasticity, myelin plasticity is required for learning, but it is unclear whether it is Hebbian or whether it follows different rules. Here, we provide evidence that white matter plasticity operates following Hebb's rule in humans. Across two experiments, we find that co-stimulating cortical areas to induce Hebbian plasticity leads to relative increases in cortical excitability and associated increases in a myelin marker within the stimulated fiber bundle. We conclude that Hebbian plasticity extends beyond synaptic changes and can be observed in human white matter fibers.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110951

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cell Rep

Publication Date

14/06/2022

Volume

39

Keywords

CP: Neuroscience, Hebbian plasticity, action reprogramming, brain plasticity, brain stimulation, magnetic resonance imaging, myelin, myelin plasticity, white matter, Humans, Learning, Neuronal Plasticity, White Matter