Week 4 flascards

Neurogenesis

The process by which precursor (stem) cells divide to produce neurons and glial cells.

Migration

The process in which newly formed neurons move from their origin to their final position in the brain.

Differentiation

The process through which cells develop into specific types of neurons or glial cells.

Synaptogenesis

The formation of synapses between neurons as they connect and communicate.

Neuronal cell death

The process of apoptosis where certain neurons die, which is a normal part of brain development.

Synaptic refinement

The process of strengthening and eliminating synapses during brain development.

Forebrain

The largest part of the human brain, including the two cerebral hemispheres.

Cortex

The outer layer of the cerebral hemispheres, characterized by its wrinkled surface.

Gyrus

A ridge on the cerebral cortex.

Sulcus

A groove in the brain's surface.

Ectoderm

The outermost germ layer that develops into the nervous system.

Mesoderm

The middle germ layer that contributes to the development of muscle, bone, and blood.

Endoderm

The innermost germ layer that forms internal organs.

Hensen's node

A structure in embryonic development that organizes the body plan.

Neural tube

A structure that forms from the rolling up of the neural plate, which develops into the central nervous system.

Axon

A long, slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body.

Chemoattractants

Chemicals that attract growth cones during neuronal migration.

Chemorepellants

Chemicals that repel growth cones during neuronal migration.

Filopodia

Slender cytoplasmic projections that help growth cones navigate the environment.

Lamellipodia

Broad, sheet-like extensions that assist growth cones in movement.

Sonic hedgehog

A signaling protein that directs the differentiation of cells in the spinal cord.

Motoneurons

Neurons that transmit impulses to muscles.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that eliminates unnecessary or damaged cells.

Neurotrophic factors

Chemicals that support neuron growth, survival, and differentiation.

Amblyopia

A developmental visual disorder where the eye fails to achieve normal visual acuity.

Fragile X syndrome

A genetic condition that causes intellectual disability and is associated with abnormal dendritic morphology.

Dendritic pruning

The process of eliminating excess dendritic spines to refine neural connections.

Ventricle

Cavities in the brain that contain cerebrospinal fluid.

Cortical plate

A layer of neurons in the developing cortex.

Diablo

A protein that facilitates apoptosis by binding to inhibitors of apoptosis proteins.

Caspases

Proteases that play essential roles in programmed cell death.

Neurogenesis failure

Failure to produce adequate neurons, potentially leading to conditions like microcephaly.

Synaptic pruning

The process of removing unnecessary synapses in the developing brain.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

A developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication.

Delayed language

A common communication impairment in autism where speech development is significantly later than expected.

Echolalia

Repetition of phrases or noises that is often seen in individuals with autism.

Frontal Cortex

Region of the brain implicated in social behavior and decision making.

Savant syndrome

A condition where someone with a developmental disorder has an exceptional skill in a specific area.

Neuronal competition

The process where neurons vie for limited neurotrophic factors and synaptic connections.

Developmental disconnection

Failure in the proper wiring and connectivity between different brain areas during development.

X-linked inheritance

Genetic transmission of traits that are associated with genes on the X chromosome.

Intellectual disability

Limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

Microtubule stability

The ability of microtubules to maintain their structure, which affects neuron morphology.

Ectoderm differentiation

The process through which ectodermal cells develop into neural tissue.

Nerve growth factor (NGF)

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

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)

Essential for the survival of existing neurons and the growth of new neurons and synapses.

Social skills training

Interventions aimed at improving social interactions in individuals with autism.

Predictability in autism

The need for consistent routines and environments by many individuals with autism.

Cognition

The mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding.

Stochastic processes

Random processes that can lead to variations in neuronal development.

Environmental influences on autism

External factors that may affect the development of autism-spectrum disorders.

Neuroanatomical abnormalities

Structural differences in the brain that correlate with various neurodevelopmental disorders.

Critical period

A developmental timeframe where exposure to certain stimuli is necessary for normal development.

Vaccination debate

Public discussions and controversies regarding the safety and effects of vaccines on health.