Gene-Brain-Behaviour Associations in Neurodevelopment (copy)

Biological Psychology

The study of the biological basis of behavior, including genetic, molecular, and physiological factors.

Aetiologies

Diverse biological origins of symptoms or traits, including genes, proteins, cells, circuits, and environmental factors.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing information and coordinating functions.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The division of the nervous system that includes cranial and spinal nerves, encompassing both autonomic and somatic systems.

Glial Cells

The main immune cells of the brain that protect it from infection.

Neurons

Basic signaling units of the nervous system that transmit information to other neurons.

Dendrites

Parts of the neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Axon

The part of the neuron that transmits signals to other neurons.

Myelin Sheath

Insulating layer around axons that increases the speed of signal transmission.

Homeostasis

The process of maintaining stable internal conditions within the body.

Allostasis

The process of achieving stability through change, particularly in response to stress and environmental demands.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate and gland activity.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Axis

A complex set of direct influences and feedback interactions among three endocrine glands that regulate stress responses.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression caused by environmental factors, affecting how genes are expressed.

Biopsychosocial Model

An integrative model of health that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding mental health.