Chapter_15_Developing_Nervous_System

Developing Nervous Systems

Neural Tube

A hollow tube that forms the basis of the central nervous system during embryonic development.

Ectoderm

The outermost layer of an embryo which thickens to form the neural plate and eventually the neural tube.

Teratogen

Any chemical or toxin that negatively impacts development of an embryo.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

A range of neurodevelopmental changes resulting from maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

Progenitor Cells

Stem cells that give rise to the cells of the nervous system during brain development.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that occurs in the developing nervous system.

Down Syndrome

A congenital disorder caused by the presence of an extra 21st chromosome, leading to intellectual disability.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

A behavioral disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often affecting learning.

Neurogenesis

The process of generating new neurons, which can continue throughout life, particularly in the hippocampus and olfactory bulb.

Radial Glia

A type of cell that supports the migration of neurons during brain development and eventually becomes astrocytes.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of neural tissue of the cerebral hemispheres where complex processing occurs.

Stereopsis

Depth perception that arises as each eye receives a slightly different view of the world.

Genetic Duplication

A process by which genes are duplicated, potentially contributing to the evolution of complex brain structures.

Symmetrical Division

A phase in brain cell development where progenitor cells divide to produce more progenitor cells.

Asymmetrical Division

A phase in brain development where progenitor cells divide to produce one progenitor cell and one neuron.

Hypothalamus

A brain region involved in many crucial functions, including hormone release and regulation of body temperature.

Frontal Cortex

A brain region involved in higher-order cognitive processes such as decision-making and impulse control.

Caudate Nucleus

A structure in the brain that has been associated with repetitive and compulsive behaviors, often examined in ASD.

Critical Period

A specific time frame in development when the brain is particularly receptive to certain types of input or experiences.

GABA Antagonists

Drugs that block the action of GABA, which may enhance neural plasticity in conditions like Down syndrome.

Oxytocin

A neuropeptide involved in social bonding and emotional recognition, which is found at lower levels in individuals with ASD.