Chapter 2: Biology of the Mind Flashcards
The brain is characterized by…
neuroplasticity
The brain is always….
changing
The brain __________ after damage
reorganizes
The brain tends to reorganize best in what stage of life?
childhood
The brain builds new _____ based on _____________
pathways; experience
What is this an example of?
Grey matter volume in the hippocampus of London taxi drivers.
Neuroplasticity
Make up the brain & nervous system.
Neurons
Cells that specialize in communication.
Neurons
Group into distinct brain systems that serve specific functions.
Neurons
________ are NOT only found in the brain.
Neurons
The neuron structure consists of:
soma, axon, myelin sheath, glial cells, dendrites, and terminal branches
Provide myelin, support, & protection
Glial cells
Neuron either fires at same intensity & speed or doesn’t.
all-or-none response
Brief pause after action potential when neuron can’t fire again.
Refractory period
What step is this in action potential?
If signal passes threshold, + ions rush in > action potential
First
What step is this in action potential?
Signal moves down axon. Once signal has passed, repolarization occurs, letting out + ions
Second
What step is this in action potential?
Pump restores resting potential (- electrical charge) of cell
Third (last)
- ________ receive chemical signal from another neuron.
Dendrites
- If the strength of received signal exceeds the threshold,
the neuron _______ & fires action potential.
depolarizes
- Action potential (electrical charge) travels _______ the axon.
down
- _________ release neurotransmitters into synapses,
which bind to receptors on other neurons.
Terminal branches
- After firing, _______ reuptakes excess neurotransmitter.
neuron
bond to specific receptors; those that don’t fit are ignored
Neurotransmitters (NTs)
can excite or inhibit receiving neuron
Neurotransmitters (NTs)
Drugs/other molecules can ______/______ NT’s action.
mimic/block
Ach antagonist
* blocks muscle movement
botulinum (toxin)
Hormones effect the _______
brain
What is this an example of?
Effects of estrogen on hippocampal dendritic spine density
in female rats.
endocrine system
tissue destruction
* either naturally occurring or experimental
Lesion
