Logo
Logo
Log inSign up
Logo

Tools

AI Concept MapsAI Mind MapsAI Study NotesAI FlashcardsAI Quizzes

Resources

BlogTemplate

Info

PricingFAQTeam

info@algoreducation.com

Corso Castelfidardo 30A, Torino (TO), Italy

Algor Lab S.r.l. - Startup Innovativa - P.IVA IT12537010014

Privacy PolicyCookie PolicyTerms and Conditions

The Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Development

Exploring the nervous system's intricacies, this overview delves into circadian rhythms, mirror neurons, and neurotrophins. It highlights the development of the CNS and PNS, their protective mechanisms, and the challenges posed by neurological disorders. The text emphasizes the adaptability and vulnerability of the nervous system, underscoring the importance of ongoing research for therapeutic advancements.

See more
Open map in editor

1

5

Open map in editor

Want to create maps from your material?

Insert your material in few seconds you will have your Algor Card with maps, summaries, flashcards and quizzes.

Try Algor

Learn with Algor Education flashcards

Click on each Card to learn more about the topic

1

The central circadian clock in mammals is found in the ______ of the ______.

Click to check the answer

suprachiasmatic nucleus hypothalamus

2

Although light is a key factor that aligns the circadian clock with the environment, these rhythms can persist without external cues, showing their ______ origin.

Click to check the answer

endogenous

3

Mirror neuron discovery location

Click to check the answer

Initially found in macaque monkeys; evidence also in humans.

4

Mirror neuron associated brain regions

Click to check the answer

Inferior frontal gyrus, inferior parietal lobule implicated in humans.

5

Mirror neuron role in language evolution

Click to check the answer

System fundamental to complex social behaviors, communication, and human language development.

6

The ______ arises from the borders of the neural tube and migrates to form the peripheral nervous system and other structures.

Click to check the answer

Neural crest cells

7

Neurogenesis, the process of generating neurons from neural stem cells, persists in certain areas of the brain, aiding in the ______ and ______ of the nervous system.

Click to check the answer

plasticity regenerative capacity

8

Neurotrophin family members

Click to check the answer

Includes NGF, BDNF, and others; essential for neuron development and survival.

9

Neurotrophin receptor function

Click to check the answer

Bind neurotrophins to promote neuronal growth, prevent apoptosis.

10

Synaptic plasticity and neurotrophins

Click to check the answer

Neurotrophins involved in strengthening/weakening synapses, crucial for learning/memory.

11

Despite its defenses, the CNS can still be prone to ______ and ______, potentially causing major functional losses.

Click to check the answer

injury disease

12

The ______ has a higher ability to heal compared to the CNS, even though it's more exposed to harm.

Click to check the answer

peripheral nervous system (PNS)

13

______ can stem from various factors, such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and infections.

Click to check the answer

Peripheral neuropathy

14

Injuries to the spinal cord often result in ______, with the recovery chances influenced by nerve regeneration and repair of the glial scar.

Click to check the answer

paralysis

15

Components of the nervous system

Click to check the answer

Central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous system (nerves and ganglia outside CNS).

16

Function of mirror neurons

Click to check the answer

Facilitate imitation and empathy by firing both during action performance and observation.

17

Role of nervous system in circadian rhythms

Click to check the answer

Regulates sleep-wake cycles and physiological processes through the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus.

Q&A

Here's a list of frequently asked questions on this topic

Similar Contents

Biology

Overview of the Autonomic Nervous System

View document

Biology

Fundamentals of the Nervous System

View document

Biology

Insect Neuronal Architecture and Signal Processing

View document

Circadian Rhythms and the Molecular Basis of Biological Clocks

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic, biological processes that regulate the timing of physiological and behavioral events in a roughly 24-hour cycle. These rhythms are present in nearly all organisms with a nervous system and are evident in daily patterns such as the sleep-wake cycle, hormone release, and metabolism. The molecular basis of these rhythms involves a set of clock genes that exhibit a cyclical pattern of expression, forming a feedback loop that oscillates over the day. In mammals, the master circadian clock is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, which synchronizes peripheral clocks throughout the body. Light is a primary cue that adjusts the clock to the environment, although circadian rhythms can maintain their periodicity in the absence of external cues, demonstrating their endogenous nature.
Detailed model of left cerebral hemisphere with sulci and gyri on light background, beaker with blue liquid and cultures in petri dish, blurred microscope on back.

Mirror Neurons: Understanding Actions and Social Cognition

Mirror neurons are a specialized type of neuron that activates both when an individual performs an action and when they observe the same action performed by another. This discovery has provided insight into the neural underpinnings of social cognition, including empathy, imitation learning, and the understanding of others' intentions. Initially discovered in the macaque monkey, evidence for mirror neurons has also been found in humans, with neuroimaging studies implicating regions such as the inferior frontal gyrus and the inferior parietal lobule. The mirror neuron system is believed to be fundamental to the development of complex social behaviors and communication, including the evolution of human language. However, the exact mechanisms by which mirror neurons contribute to these cognitive functions remain an active area of research.

Vertebrate Nervous System Development: From Neural Plate to Complex Networks

The development of the vertebrate nervous system is a highly orchestrated process that begins with the formation of the neural plate, a layer of specialized ectodermal cells. This plate folds to form the neural tube, which differentiates into the brain and spinal cord, constituting the central nervous system (CNS). Neural crest cells, which arise at the borders of the neural tube, migrate to various locations in the body to form the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and other structures. Inductive signals from the mesoderm, such as the inhibition of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) by antagonists like Noggin and Chordin, initiate neural differentiation. Neurogenesis, the production of neurons from neural stem cells, continues throughout life in certain brain regions, contributing to the plasticity and regenerative capacity of the nervous system.

Neurotrophins: Essential Factors in Neuronal Development and Survival

Neurotrophins are a family of growth factors critical for the development, maintenance, and survival of neurons. These proteins, including nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and others, bind to specific receptors on neurons to promote growth and prevent apoptosis. The discovery of neurotrophins in a wide range of species indicates their evolutionary importance in nervous system development. In addition to their role in development, neurotrophins are also involved in synaptic plasticity, the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, which is essential for learning and memory.

Protecting the Central Nervous System and Understanding Its Pathologies

The central nervous system (CNS) is protected by the skull, vertebral column, and three layers of meninges, as well as the blood-brain barrier, which selectively controls the passage of substances into the brain. Despite these defenses, the CNS is susceptible to injury and disease, which can lead to significant functional impairments. The peripheral nervous system (PNS), while more accessible to injury, has a greater capacity for regeneration. Disorders such as peripheral neuropathy can result from a variety of causes, including diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and infections. Spinal cord injuries often lead to paralysis, with recovery potential depending on the extent of nerve regeneration and the ability to bypass or repair the glial scar that forms at the injury site.

Conclusion: The Intricate and Adaptive Nervous System

The nervous system, comprising the central and peripheral components, is a sophisticated network that orchestrates a wide range of vital functions. It is characterized by its ability to regulate internal processes, such as circadian rhythms, and its capacity for complex behaviors and cognition, as evidenced by the role of mirror neurons. The development of the nervous system from embryonic structures to intricate neural circuits is a testament to its complexity and adaptability. Despite robust protective mechanisms, the nervous system is vulnerable to various pathologies that can profoundly affect an individual's life. Ongoing research into the nervous system's structure, function, and development is crucial for advancing our understanding of neurological disorders and improving therapeutic strategies.