Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity

These flashcards cover key concepts related to neurobiology, neuroplasticity, and the physiological processes of the nervous system discussed in the lecture.

Halloween

October 31st, a holiday celebrated in many countries.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to experience and environmental changes.

Unipolar neurons

Neurons with a single process extending from the cell body, typically found in sensory pathways.

Cortical map

A representation of the sensory areas in the brain, correlating to specific body parts.

Axon collaterals

Branches of an axon that can connect to other neurons.

Dorsal root ganglion (DRG)

Clusters of sensory neuron cell bodies located in the dorsal root of the spinal cord.

Somatosensory cortex

The area in the brain that processes sensory information from the body.

Trophic factors

Substances that help support and guide neuronal growth and connectivity.

Collateral sprouting

The process by which axon terminals branch out to form new connections when original input is lost.

Action potentials

Electrical impulses that neurons use to communicate.

Hebbian principles

Neuroscientific principles stating that simultaneous activation of cells leads to increased synaptic strength between them, summarized as 'cells that fire together, wire together.'

Experience-dependent plasticity

Changes in neural connections as a result of individual experiences.

Functional neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to move functions from damaged areas to undamaged areas.

Chemoattractants

Chemicals released by neurons to attract other neurons for connectivity.

Nerve growth factor

A neurotrophic factor that supports the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.