Chapter 1: Basics of Cell Biology

Monism

Assumes that our mind and body are made out of the same substance.

Dualism

Assumes the exact opposite from monism.

Which can be assumed to be correct?

Monism. Because physical damage to the brain leads to impairments in our thoughts.

What is the goal of neuroscience?

To reduce behavior down to neurons.

Solipsism

Assumes that the world is strictly a creation of the mind; An extreme extension of the mind-body system.

What is physiological behavior?

The cat’s nervous system sending signals to the skin causing its hairs to physically rise. This behavior essentially has an explanation as to why certain things take place.

What is functional behavior?

The hairs of a cat’s body becoming erect to seem bigger and threatening. This behavior essentially serves a purpose.

What might cause behavior to be strictly labeled as evolutionary?

If the behavior no longer helps or improves anything.

What might cause behavior to be strictly labeled as functional?

If the behavior is voluntarily doing something to help with a new or unexpected situation.

What are the two types of nervous system cells?

Neurons and glia

What are neurons?

Convey messages over long distances and are the primary focus of neuroscience.

What are glia?

Support staff for neurons.

What are the types of glia?

Astrocytes, Schwann cells, Oligodendrocytes, and radial glia

What do astrocytes do?

Synchronize activity between neurons, remove waste material, dilate blood vessels during times of high activity, and breaks down and recycles neurotransmitters

What do Schwann cells do?

Myelinate neurons in the peripheral nervous system

What do oligodendrocytes do?

Myelinate neurons in the central nervous system

What do radial glia do?

Initially guide developing neurons to their correct place in the brain acting as a highway

What happens to some radial glia after serving their purpose?

Some become stem cells