The Biological Basis of Neuroscience

Introduction and Overview:

Neuroscience explores how the brain and nervous system influence our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Examining the biological aspects of our thoughts and behavior helps us understand how neural processes work.

Brain Structure:

• Cerebrum
  • The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain.
  • Divided into left and right hemispheres.
  • Contains the cerebral cortex, which is involved in complex processes like perception, reasoning, and memory.
• Cerebellum
  • Located at the back of the brain.
  • Coordinates voluntary movements like balance, coordination, and speech.
• Brainstem
  • Connects the brain to the spinal cord.
  • The main functions are controlling heart rate, breathing, and sleep cycles.
  • Composed of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
• Thalamus
  • Located near the center of the brain.
  • Acts as a relay station for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.
• Hypothalamus
  • Located below the thalamus.
  • Regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms.
  • Controls the endocrine system through the pituitary gland.
• Limbic System
  • A group of interconnected structures including the hippocampus, amygdala, and cingulate gyrus.
  • Involved in emotion, memory, and motivation.
• Corpus Callosum
  • A large bundle of nerve fibers that connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
  • Helps with communication between the left and right hemispheres.

Neurons:

• Neurons are the basic structure of communication.
• Neurons communicate through action potentials.
• Action potentials are a series of electrical impulses that travel down the axon and trigger the release of neurotransmitters at the synapse.
• Glial cells provide support and insulation for neurons.

Neurotransmitters:

• Neurotransmitter imbalances are implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• They can be inhibitory and exciatory.
• Example of some neurotransmitters include dopamine and norepinephrine.
• Psychotropic medications target neurotransmitter systems to alleviate symptoms of mental illness.

Models