Introduction to Brain and Genetics

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture on brain and genetics.

Somatosensory Cortex

Area of the brain that processes sensory information from the body.

Neurogenesis

The process by which new neurons are formed in the brain.

Genetic Information

DNA is transcribed into RNA and translated into proteins comprised of amino acids.

Epigenetics

Study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.

Action Potential

A sudden and rapid change in the membrane potential when a neuron is activated above a certain threshold.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

Essential for maintaining homeostasis of neuronal membrane potential and thus enabling subsequent action potentials.

Neuron Basics

Specialized cells that transmit information throughout the body via electrical impulses.

Refractory Periods

States following an action potential where new action potentials can only be initiated under certain conditions.

Ionotropic Receptors

Receptors that create immediate postsynaptic effects when activated by neurotransmitters.

Metabotropic Receptors

Receptors that indirectly lead to changes in cell activity via signal transduction mechanisms.

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

A concept describing how synaptic efficiency can increase with repeated activation, essential for learning and memory.

Stroop Effect

Cognitive interference occurring when the name of a color conflicts with the color of the ink used to print the word.

Transgenerational Changes

Research findings showing that environmental factors can affect gene expression across generations.

Peripheral Nervous System vs. Central Nervous System

Peripheral neurons can regenerate their axons; central nervous system neurons typically cannot.

Impact of Mutations

Mutations can lead to dysfunctional proteins affecting bodily functions.