Brain Development and Evolution

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to brain development, evolution, and their implications on behavior and genetics.

Encephalization factor

A measure that takes into account the brain weight to body weight ratio for different species.

Social Brain Hypothesis

The idea that a larger cortex is favored for managing complex social interactions.

Cerebral volume

The total volume of the brain, which has been associated with various stages of human evolution.

Neurogenesis

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

Apoptosis

A programmed cell death mechanism that occurs naturally in development.

Neurotrophins

Proteins that promote the survival and growth of developing neurons.

Gliogenesis

The development of glial cells in the nervous system.

Transcription factors (TFs)

Proteins that regulate gene expression and play a crucial role in the early development of the nervous system.

Epigenetics

The study of changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself.

Phenotype

The observable physical characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of genotype with the environment.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual.

Plasticity

The ability of the brain to adapt and change in response to experience.

Homeotic proteins

Transcription factors involved in the genetic regulation of body plan development.

Myelination

The process of forming a myelin sheath around nerves, which increases the conduction velocity of nerve impulses.

Cell migration

The movement of newly formed neurons and glial cells to their designated locations in the brain.

Dopaminergic system

A group of neurons that release dopamine, playing significant roles in reward and motivation.

Behavioral teratology

The study of how the maternal environment affects fetal nervous system development.

Radial glia

A type of glial cell that guides migrating neurons during brain development.