Chapter 3 - Genes, Nervous System, Bio Flashcards
Epigenetics
the study of how life events can change how genes are expressed
Heritability
how much variation in phenotype across people is due to differences in genotype
Neural Plasticity
the brain’s ability to physiologically modify, regenerate, and reinvent itself constantly over the course of a lifetime
Damage Plasticity
neural modification following injury that takes the form of brain reorganization
Stem Cells
cells that have not yet undergone gene expression to differentiate into specialized cell types
Neurogenesis
the birth of entirely new neurons
Cerebral Cortex
the outermost layer of the brain; supports cognitive skills, complex emotions, and complex mental activity
Motor Neurons
a neuron that sends signals to make the body take action
Sensory Neurons
a neuron that carries information from the outside world and within the body to the brain
Interneurons
a neuron that connects neurons and interprets, stores, and retrieves information about the world, allowing you to make informed decisions before you act
Central Nervous System
composed of brain and spinal cord; information from your body travels to your brain by way of the nerves in the spinal cord
Peripheral Nervous System
composed of nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord; connects parts of the body to the brain
Somatic Nervous System
allows you to feel external sensations from and control volitional movement of the body
Autonomic Nervous System
allows you to feel internal sensations from and controls autonomic movements of the organs, such as heartbeat
Sympathetic Nervous System
acts on blood vessels, organs, and glands in a way that prepare the body for action, especially in life-threatening situations
