Hippocampal dysregulation of synaptic plasticity-associated proteins with age-related cognitive decline

► Rat model of aging exhibits impaired spatial learning and memory similar to humans. ► Plasticity-associated proteins are dysregulated specifically with cognitive decline. ► Expression of plasticity-mediating proteins correlates with cognitive performance. ► Cognition-specific changes occur in conjunction with age-related alterations. ► Dysregulation occurs throughout the hippocampal formation.