Chapter 5A Flashcards
What are neurons?
Neurons are nerve cells that receive and transmit neural information.
What is the function of neurons?
Neurons enable communication around the body by receiving, transmitting, and processing information in the form of neuronal messages.
How do neurons send messages?
Neurons send messages via neuronal signals that travel through neural pathways.
What is synaptic transmission?
The process of a message being transmitted from one neuron to another across the synaptic gap.
Where does the post-synaptic neuron receive a message from?
The post-synaptic neuron receives a message from the pre-synaptic neuron on its dendrites.
How is the electrical message transported within the neuron?
The electrical message travels through the nucleus and soma, then down the axon to the axon terminal.
What happens at the axon terminal during synaptic transmission?
The axon terminal releases the chemical message into the synaptic gap, where it binds to complementary receptor sites on the next neuron.
What are the two types of messages that can be transmitted?
Excitatory – Increases the likelihood of an action potential.
Inhibitory – Reduces the likelihood of an action potential.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change in response to experience or environmental stimulation.
What are the two types of neuroplasticity?
Developmental plasticity and adaptive plasticity.
What is developmental plasticity?
Developmental plasticity refers to brain changes that occur in response to ageing and the learnings associated with maturation.
What is adaptive plasticity?
Adaptive plasticity refers to brain changes that occur in response to a need to adapt, such as after brain trauma or injury.
What is synaptogenesis?
Synaptogenesis is the process of forming new synapses between neurons when an individual learns something new.
How does synaptogenesis occur?
The axon terminals of neurons grow and form connections with nearby neurons, creating synapses to represent and retain learning.
When does synaptogenesis occur most intensely?
Synaptogenesis occurs throughout the lifespan but is most intense during infancy.
What is myelination?
Myelination is the process where the axon of a neuron becomes covered with myelin to facilitate more efficient communication of messages.
How does myelination improve neural communication?
Myelination protects the neuron from interference from other neurons, allowing faster and smoother message transmission.
Why is myelination important for development and learning?
It ensures that as we develop and learn new skills, communication in the brain happens quickly and efficiently.
What is synaptic pruning?
Synaptic pruning is the process of eliminating underused synapses to free up space and strengthen frequently used synapses.
Why does synaptic pruning occur?
It allows the brain to function more efficiently by removing weak or unused synapses and reinforcing important neural connections.
When does synaptic pruning occur most intensely?
The most intense periods of synaptic pruning occur after infancy (ages two to three) and during adolescence.
What is brain trauma?
Damage to the brain caused by external forces.
What are some common causes of brain trauma?
Falling and hitting your head
A head-on assault
Vehicle accidents
Sporting injuries to the head
What is rerouting in adaptive plasticity?
Rerouting is a neuron’s ability to form a new connection with another undamaged neuron.
What is sprouting in adaptive plasticity?
Sprouting is the ability of a neuron to develop new branches on its dendrites or axons.
How does sprouting help the brain adapt?
It strengthens neural connections and compensates for lost or damaged connections after brain trauma.
What are the effects of brain trauma on neurons?
The death of neurons and destruction of neuronal connections
The overstimulation of neurons due to excessive accumulation of neurotransmitters
How does rerouting occur?
The neuron abandons its connection with a damaged neuron and connects with an undamaged one, forming new neural pathways.
What is mental stimulation?
Mental stimulation is an activity that activates neuronal connections and involves the processing of information.
What are some examples of mental stimulation?
Doing a crossword puzzle
Learning to play an instrument
Meditating
How does mental stimulation benefit the brain?
It stimulates new neural connections and builds resistance to future cell loss.
What dietary guideline is recommended for maintaining brain function?
A balanced diet following the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating.
How does mental stimulation affect synaptic pruning?
Mental stimulation strengthens and prevents synaptic pruning of needed neuronal connections.
What type of diet is encouraged for brain health?
A Mediterranean diet, which is diverse and rich in vitamins.
How do leafy greens benefit brain function?
Leafy greens like kale and spinach contain vitamin K, which helps slow cognitive decline.
Why are fatty fish important for brain health?
Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to lower blood levels of beta-amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
How much physical activity is recommended for children and young people?
At least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity.
How does physical activity affect physiological systems and the brain?
It forces the body’s physiological systems (e.g., respiratory and skeletal systems) and brain areas to communicate more closely than usual.
What is social support?
Social support involves being part of or interacting with a group of people.
How does physical activity benefit brain function?
It increases blood supply to the brain and promotes the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus.
What are some examples of social support?
Going to gatherings with family and friends
Being part of a community group
Calling a friend once a day
How does social support protect brain function?
Having someone to listen to you is associated with greater resistance to brain damage.
How does social interaction reduce cognitive decline?
Interacting with people of similar interests reduces loneliness, which decreases the risk of cognitive decline.
