The Brain & Nervous System
This part of the brain is responsible for regulating vital functions such as heartbeat and breathing.
Medulla
These cells provide support and protection for neurons in the central nervous system.
glial cells
This hormone is released in response to stress and prepares the body for action.
cortisol
This part of the brain is involved in forming new memories.
hippocampus
This technique measures electrical activity of the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp.
electroencephalogram (EEG)
This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure, motivation, and the reward system
dopamine
This is the gap between neurons where neurotransmitters are released to send signals.
synapse
Known as the "love hormone," this hormone is involved in bonding, trust, and social behavior.
oxytocin
This area of the brain processes visual information.
occipital lobe
This imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of brain structures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Known as the "master gland," this gland controls hormone release from other endocrine glands.
pituitary gland
The process by which neurotransmitters are taken back into the presynaptic neuron after being released.
reuptake
This gland releases melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.
pineal gland
Known for regulating emotions such as fear and aggression, this structure is part of the limbic system.
amygdala
This type of brain scan is used to observe metabolic processes by tracking radioactive glucose.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
This nervous system division controls the "fight or flight" response.
sympathetic nervous system
This neurotransmitter is primarily involved in muscle action, learning, and memory.
acetylcholine
Released by the adrenal medulla, this hormone increases heart rate and blood pressure during stress.
adrenaline (or epinephrine)
This part of the brain plays a role in motor coordination and balance.
cerebellum
This method temporarily disrupts brain activity using magnetic pulses to understand the role of different brain areas.
transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
This structure connects the two hemispheres of the brain, allowing them to communicate.
the corpus callosum
These structures on the postsynaptic neuron bind to neurotransmitters.
receptors
This hormone, produced by the pancreas, helps regulate blood glucose levels.
insulin
This lobe of the brain is primarily responsible for reasoning, planning, and problem-solving.
frontal lobe
This functional imaging method shows blood flow changes in the brain, indicating neural activity.
Functional MRI (fMRI)