Cellular Foundations
The name for the fundamental units of the nervous system
Neurons
The neuron receiving the message
the postsynaptic neuron
The complex command center of the CNS that contains billions of neurons and is protected within the skull
the brain
Segments of DNA located on chromosomes
genes
A structure of the brain responsible for balance, aim, and timing (hint: it means "little brain" in Latin)
cerebellum
The fatty substance that covers axons for insulation and speed of processing
myelin sheath
A chemical messenger that transmits signals between nerve cells
neurotransmitter
A network of nerves (in the PNS) that prepares the organs for rigorous activity (fight or flight)
sympathetic nervous system
A field that is concerned with changes in gene expression without the modification of the DNA sequence itself (usually from life experiences)
epigenetics
Neurons that are active during a movement and watching someone else perform the same movement
mirror neurons
A mechanism that surrounds the brain and blocks most chemicals from entering
blood brain barrier
The place where a neurotransmitter binds on the postsynaptic neuron, in order to send a signal
A receptor
the lobe at the posterior (back) end of the cortex, responsible for visual input
occipital lobe
a condition (in children) that results from heavy alcohol use during their parent's pregnancy
fetal alcohol syndrome
a disorder caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-releasing axons (typically affects older adults)
Parkinson's disease
The primary source of fuel for neurons
glucose
The space between two neurons that is only 20-30 nanometers wide
synaptic cleft
The most anterior (front) part of the frontal lobe, responsible for higher-order functions such as abstract thinking, planning, and decision-making
when a blood clot or plaque blocks an artery in the brain, cutting off blood flow and oxygen, causing brain cells to die
ischemic stroke
impaired ability to recognize faces, which can result from damage to the fusiform gyrus
prosopagnosia
A rapid electrical signal involving a quick change from negative to positive voltage (depolarization) of the neuron.
Action potential
This protein (found in fish, turkey, eggs, and dairy) is synthesized by the body into seratonin
Tryptophan
four fluid-filled cavities within the brain containing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
the ventricles
The final stage of neural development—the formation of the synapses between neurons
synaptogenesis
the brain region that is activated during both physical and emotional pain
anterior cinculate cortex