Amy Jo Marcano-Reik 
Brain and Spinal Cord Plasticity 
An Interdisciplinary and Integrative Approach for Behavior, Cognition and Health

The brain exhibits extraordinarily complex activity and undergoes very rapid change during early development. The ways in which the brain undergoes change during development and interacts with other elements – such as genetics and the environment – can influence behavioral organization. This process of change and the ability to be molded (which is known as plasticity) is important for development, organization, and recovery of function after injury or damage. Through processes involving mechanisms of plasticity, both behavior and cognition can be influenced in many ways important to neurological and psychological function and health. The confluence of brain plasticity, behavior, cognition, and health is complex and requires an interdisciplinary and integrative examination to fully appreciate the biological and psychological implications. The author utilizes this unique approach to review evidence important for behavior and cognition, while addressing important implications for physical and mental health and wellness.