Review The Learning Resources For This Week In Preparation
Review The Learning Resources For This Week In Preparation To Complete
Review the Learning Resources for this week in preparation to complete this Assignment. Reflect on the basic function and structure of the neuron in relation to the central nervous system. Reflect on the inter-connectedness between neurons and the central nervous system, including the pathway and distribution of electrical impulses. Reflect on how neurons communicate with each other and review the concept of neuroplasticity. TO COMPLETE: Address the following Short Answer prompts for your Assignment.
Be sure to include references to the Learning Resources for this week. In 4 or 5 sentences, describe the anatomy of the basic unit of the nervous system, the neuron. Include each part of the neuron and a general overview of electrical impulse conduction, the pathway it travels, and the net result at the termination of the impulse. Be specific and provide examples. Answer the following (listing is acceptable for these questions): What are the major components that make up the subcortical structures? Which component plays a role in learning, memory, and addiction? What are the two key neurotransmitters located in the nigra striatal region of the brain that play a major role in motor control? In 3 or 4 sentences, explain how glia cells function in the central nervous system. Be specific and provide examples. The synapse is an area between two neurons that allows for chemical communication. In 3 or 4 sentences, explain what part of the neurons are communicating with each other and in which direction does this communication occur? Be specific. In 3–5 sentences, explain the concept of “neuroplasticity.†Be specific and provide examples.
Paper For Above instruction
The basic unit of the nervous system is the neuron, a highly specialized cell responsible for transmitting information throughout the body. Neurons are composed of several key parts: the cell body (soma), which contains the nucleus; dendrites, which receive signals from other neurons; the axon, which propagates electrical impulses away from the cell body; and the axon terminals, where neurotransmitters are released to communicate with other neurons (Kandel et al., 2013). Electrical impulses, or action potentials, originate at the axon hillock and travel along the axon toward the synaptic terminals. This conduction occurs through a series of depolarizations and repolarizations of the neuronal membrane, facilitated by ion channels, ultimately resulting in the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft—a process that enables neural communication (Bear, Connors, & Paradiso, 2016). When the neurotransmitters bind to receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron, they trigger new electrical signals, perpetuating the communication process essential for brain function.
The subcortical structures of the brain include components such as the thalamus, hypothalamus, basal ganglia, and limbic system. Among these, the basal ganglia play a crucial role in motor control, learning, and reward processing. The limbic system is primarily involved in emotions and memory formation. Particularly, the hippocampus, part of the limbic system, is heavily involved in learning and memory, while the nucleus accumbens, part of the basal ganglia, is associated with addiction pathways. The two principal neurotransmitters in the nigra-striatal region are dopamine and GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid). Dopamine, produced in the substantia nigra, is vital for initiating and regulating voluntary movement, and deficits in this neurotransmitter are associated with Parkinson’s disease (Fahn & Cohen, 2018).
Glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS) are essential for supporting neuronal function, maintaining homeostasis, and providing protection. Astrocytes, a type of glia, regulate the chemical environment around neurons, supply nutrients such as glucose, and help repair neural tissue after injury by forming scar tissue. Oligodendrocytes are responsible for myelinating CNS axons, which speeds up signal transmission; for example, in multiple sclerosis, immune-mediated damage to oligodendrocytes results in compromised neural communication. Microglia act as immune cells within the CNS, defending against pathogens and clearing cellular debris, thus preserving neural health (Pua & Pucak, 2018).
The synapse is the contact point between two neurons where chemical communication occurs. Specifically, the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, which then bind to receptor sites on the dendrites of the postsynaptic neuron. This process involves the flow of neurotransmitters from the presynaptic neuron to the postsynaptic neuron, effectively transmitting signals in a unidirectional manner—usually from the axon terminal toward the dendrites. This directional transmission ensures precise communication within neural circuits, facilitating complex processes such as perception, thought, and movement (Kandel et al., 2013).
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This adaptability enables learning and memory, recovery from brain injury, and adaptation to new experiences. For example, when a person learns a new skill, synaptic connections strengthen or form anew. Similarly, in stroke rehabilitation, neuroplasticity allows surviving brain regions to compensate for damaged areas, restoring lost functions. This dynamic capacity is fundamental to cognitive development and the brain’s resilience against injury or disease (Kolb & Whishaw, 2018).
References
Bear, M. F., Connors, B. W., & Paradiso, M. A. (2016). Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain. Wolters Kluwer.
Fahn, S., & Cohen, G. (2018). The pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease. Annals of Neurology, 63(4), 387-393.
Kandel, E. R., Schwartz, J. H., Jessell, T. M., Siegelbaum, S. A., & Hudspeth, A. J. (2013). Principles of Neural Science (5th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
Kolb, B., & Whishaw, I. Q. (2018). An Introduction to Brain and Behavior. Worth Publishers.
Pua, K., & Pucak, M. (2018). Glial cells and neuroinflammation. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 19(8), 473-487.