Option A.1 Neural Development
Development of Neural tube Neurulation Creation of neural tube and crest cells Occurs in the first 4 weeks of gestation in humans Ectoderm infolding and separation on dorsal side of organism to create primitive spinal cord Neural tube elongates from middle of spinal cord toward Cranial and caudal regions.
Neurulation Video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGLexQR9xGs
Neural Tube Neural Tube is the basis for the spinal cord, vertebral column. and central nervous system Includes brain spinal cord Also is the basis for the Peripheral Nervous System (Both Sensory and Motor)
Spina bifida Incomplete closure of embryonic neural tube Results in an incomplete vertebra Usually occurs in lower vertebra of back
Spina bifida
Development of Neurons The cells within the neural tube are very simple Cell body, cytoplasm, nucleus Chemical stimuli will cause neuron differentiation- Axon will start forming from the cell body Dendrites will also start forming
Axon growth and development Axons continue to grow even extending out of the spinal cord (CNS) These axons begin forming the PNS Damage to Axons As long as the cell body is not damaged outside of the CNS the axon is able to regrow Differing growth rates depending on location of nerve As rapid as 5mm/day Recovery depends on re-establishment of connections.
Synapses Most neurological synapses involve many axons on a post synaptic cell Synapses can continue to be formed throughout all stages of life If a synapse is used a chemical marker is left in the cleft to cause the synapse to be strengthened in future uses If a synapse is not used for an extended period of time the synapse will become weaker and eventually eliminated Neural Pruning “Use it or lose it”
Neural Plasticity Creation and destruction of axons and synapses to reorganize/rewire neural connections. Plasticity of the brain is much more prominent in young children (6 and under) but continues throughout life. Important in treating TBI, stroke, etc. Also used in remembering information/memories Lumosity?
Improve neural plasticity 1. Physical Exercise (up to 80% of the issue) 2. Memory Training exercises/games 3. Meditation 4. Omega-3