Neuroscience Terms

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axons

Back

Long, thin projections of neurons that carry electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

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biochemistry

Back

The study of the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms.

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brain plasticity

Back

The brain's ability to change and reorganize its structure, functions, and connections in response to experience, learning, or injury.

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critical periods

Back

Specific times during development when the brain is particularly sensitive to certain types of learning or stimulation.

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dendrites

Back

Branch-like extensions of neurons that receive messages from other neurons and transmit them toward the cell body.

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firing process

Back

The process by which neurons send electrical impulses (action potentials) down their axons to communicate with other neurons.

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glial cells

Back

Support cells in the nervous system that protect, nourish, and provide structural support for neurons.

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neurons

Back

Specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit information using electrical and chemical signals.

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pruning

Back

The natural elimination of unused or weak neural connections, which helps make brain networks more efficient.

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sensitive periods

Back

Times in development when learning certain skills or acquiring specific knowledge is easier and more effective.