Synaptic Plasticity RT² Profiler™ PCR Array profiles the expression of 84 key genes central to synaptic alterations during learning and memory. The brain recalls immediate events via short-term memories; however, it must consolidate these events into long-term memory for later recall. Memory consolidation requires synaptic plasticity characterized by physical changes to, and gene expression changes in, neuronal synapses. Synaptic plasticity studies have discovered immediate-early genes (IEGs) that alter expression immediately after neuronal events. IEGs mediate long-term potentiation (LTP), a process that enhances synaptic connections and consolidates memories. However, as not all events become long-term memories, the opposite synaptic remodeling response, long-term depression (LTD), also plays a central role in synaptic plasticity. Gene expression changes associated with LTD yield physical changes in the neuronal synapse that recycle receptors and either enhance or inhibit synaptic connections. This array includes IEGs and other genes important for LTP and LTD, as well as key neuronal receptor genes and genes important for synapse remodeling. Using real-time PCR, you can easily and reliably analyze the expression of a focused panel of genes involved in synaptic plasticity, LTP and LTD with this array.