The nervous system is a complex network of cells that transmit signals throughout the body. It is responsible for controlling and coordinating all bodily functions, including movement, sensation, and thought. In this lesson, we will explore the development of the nervous system and the concept of neural plasticity.
Neural Development
The nervous system begins to develop early in embryonic development. The first step is the formation of the neural tube, which eventually becomes the brain and spinal cord. Neural stem cells then differentiate into neurons and glial cells, which provide support and insulation for the neurons. Neurons migrate to their final locations and begin to form connections with other neurons. This process continues throughout childhood and adolescence, with the brain reaching its full size and complexity in early adulthood.
Synapse Formation
Neurons communicate with each other at specialized junctions called synapses. Synapse formation is a critical step in the development of the nervous system. During early development, there is an overproduction of synapses, followed by a process of pruning where weaker connections are eliminated. This process is influenced by experience and is thought to be important for shaping the neural circuits that underlie behavior.
Neural Plasticity
Neural plasticity refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to experience. This can occur at the level of individual synapses, where the strength of connections between neurons can be modified. It can also occur at the level of neural circuits, where the organization and function of groups of neurons can be altered. Neural plasticity is thought to underlie learning and memory, as well as recovery from brain injury.
Factors Influencing Neural Plasticity
There are several factors that can influence neural plasticity. One of the most important is experience. Repeated exposure to a stimulus can strengthen the connections between neurons that are involved in processing that stimulus. This is the basis of learning and memory. Other factors that can influence neural plasticity include age, stress, and hormonal changes.
Applications of Neural Plasticity
Understanding neural plasticity has important implications for a variety of fields, including education, rehabilitation, and neuroscience. By understanding how the brain changes in response to experience, educators can design more effective learning strategies. Rehabilitation programs can be designed to take advantage of the brain's ability to reorganize after injury. And researchers can use knowledge of neural plasticity to develop new treatments for neurological disorders.
Now let's see if you've learned something...
⇦ 3 Sensory and motor systems 5 Disorders of the nervous system ⇨