A cortical cell originally responded to stimulation of the middle finger. After amputation of that finger, it begins responding to the second and fourth fingers. Which action most likely accounts for this?
A) Synaptic reorganization
B) Growth of completely new axons
C) Altered pattern of blood vessels in the brain
D) A psychotic reaction

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This phenomenon is likely the result of synaptic reorganization in the cortical cell. After the amputation of the middle finger, the brain's sensory map of the body is altered, and neighboring areas may begin to respond to input from other nearby fingers. This reorganization occurs at the level of synapses between neurons in the cortex. No evidence suggests that this phenomenon is caused by growth of new axons or altered patterns of blood vessels. A psychotic reaction is not relevant to this neurological phenomenon.

A Cortical Cell Originally Responded to Stimulation of the Middle