A key objective of several neuroscience studies is to understand and model how the dynamics of distinct populations of neurons give rise to specific human and animal behaviors. Many existing methods for exploring the link between neural activity and behavior rely on...
The activity of neurons in the mammalian brain is known to contribute to the development of the brain at the early stages of development. While past neuroscientific studies have gathered evidence supporting this notion, the extent to which early neuronal activity...
The brains of mammals expend a significant amount of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This is the molecule that cells use to transfer energy, ultimately fueling several biological processes.
Chronic stress can have adverse effects on both the minds and bodies of affected individuals. Past studies suggest that particularly stressful life events can also impact people's cognitive abilities, for instance, producing changes in their memory and sometimes...
While they are courting, some animals produce distinct sound patterns that clearly convey their intentions to potential mates. These sounds are typically produced via a series of muscle movements, which are in turn planned and controlled by neural circuits.
Irrespective of their personal, professional and social circumstances, different individuals can experience varying levels of life satisfaction, fulfillment and happiness. This general measure of life satisfaction, broadly referred to as "well-being," has been the key...
Past neuroscience studies have consistently highlighted the profound changes that the human brain undergoes throughout childhood and adolescence. These efforts have uncovered various stages of development, during which the brain's organization evolves to support...
In neuroscience, the term 'active zone' is used to refer to a specialized area in the presynaptic membrane of synapses (i.e., the connections via which neurons transmit electric nerve signals to each other or to other cells). The active zone is the site where...
Aging is known to have profound effects on the human brain, prompting changes in the composition of cells and the expression of genes, while also altering aspects of the interaction between genes and environmental factors. While past neuroscience studies have...
Synapses are junctions via which neurons communicate with each other or with other types of cells. Synapses are formed throughout the course of a person's life, yet their strength and numbers change over time, a phenomenon known as synaptic plasticity.