Brain Damage and Neuroplasticity

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to brain damage, neuroplasticity, types of brain injuries, neurological diseases, and their treatments.

What are the main categories of brain injury discussed in the lecture?

Brain tumors, cerebrovascular disorders, closed-head injuries, infections of the brain, neurotoxins, and genetic factors.

What is a brain tumor?

A mass of cells that grows independently of the rest of the body; it can be classified into types such as meningiomas, infiltrating tumors, and metastatic tumors.

What distinguishes infiltrating tumors from other types of brain tumors?

Infiltrating tumors grow diffusely through surrounding tissue and are typically malignant, making them difficult to remove or destroy.

What is a cerebrovascular disorder?

A condition that results from problems in the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain, commonly causing strokes.

What is the difference between a hemorrhagic stroke and an ischemic stroke?

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by bleeding in or around the brain, while ischemic strokes occur when a clot blocks blood flow to a brain area.

What is the penumbra in the context of stroke damage?

The area of damaged tissue surrounding the infarct that can potentially be saved with early intervention.

What are free radicals, and how do they affect stroke damage?

Free radicals are unstable molecules that break down components in blood after a hemorrhagic stroke, causing further damage to cells and DNA.

What are some potential treatments for ischemic stroke?

Treatments include thrombolytics like tPA to restore blood flow, calcium channel blockers to prevent cell death, and NMDA antagonists to inhibit excessive glutamate stimulation.

What is neural degeneration?

The deterioration and death of neurons, which can occur in neurodevelopment, neurodegenerative diseases, and following nervous system damage.

What factors inhibit neural regeneration in the CNS but promote it in the PNS?

Oligodendrocytes in the CNS inhibit regeneration, while Schwann cells in the PNS promote it by cleaning up debris and releasing growth factors.

What is chronic traumatic encephalopathy?

A neurodegenerative disorder caused by repeated concussions, leading to symptoms similar to dementia, particularly in athletes.

What is one major cause of Alzheimer's Disease?

The presence of neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques in the brain, which lead to neuron loss and cognitive decline.

What are neurotoxins?

Substances that can cause damage to the nervous system. They can be exogenous, like heavy metals, or endogenous, like excess neurotransmitters.

How do genetic factors contribute to brain injuries or neurological diseases?

Recessive genes, multiple gene mutations, and chromosomal abnormalities (such as in Down syndrome) can lead to neurological disorders.

What role does neuroplasticity play in the recovery from brain injuries?

Neuroplasticity describes the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections, which can contribute to recovery after damage.

What kind of changes can experience drive in the brain?

Experience can drive both the organization and reorganization of the brain, influencing how neural circuits function and adapt.

How can rehabilitation impact recovery from nervous system damage?

Rehabilitation can enhance recovery by promoting neuroplastic changes, compensatory mechanisms for cognitive deficits, and improving brain function.