This is only a partial list of the hundreds of terms and specialties associated with brain injuries. abducens nerve: sixth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of one of the extraocular muscles. The ability of synapses to alter their strength by changing their size, shape, number of receptors, and amount of neurotransmitter released. This state is accompanied by paralysis of the body's muscles; only the muscles that allow breathing and control eye movements remain active. Keep up with neuro-developments, including news, events, and multi-media. Neurotransmitters, hormones, and immune molecules can all function as neuromodulators. It gives meaning to our world and our place in it. They play a role in sexual development, calcium and bone metabolism, growth, and many other activities. July 20, 2019 Author: During times of stress, epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is quickly released into the bloodstream. A specialized region in the cortex involved in the planning and execution of movement. amylase: An enzyme secreted by the pancreas that breaks starch into sugar. Considered the simplest and most fundamental movements, they are relatively fixed, automatic muscle responses to particular stimuli, such as the slight extension of the leg when a physician taps the knee with a small rubber hammer. The ability of the brain to modify its neural connections to adapt to challenges in the environment. Computers then build three-dimensional images of changes in blood flow based on the amount of radiation emitted in different brain regions. The striatum is a part of the basal ganglia and is involved in reward processing. The key relay station for sensory information flowing into the brain, the thalamus filters out information of particular importance from the mass of signals entering the brain. Hormones that produce an array of effects in response to stress. The brain also controls all major body functions. A block in the brain's blood supply. Translate brain into Spanish. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. When used in reference to the nervous system, dorsal refers to the back when discussing the spinal cord.However, above the junction of the midbrain and diencephalon, dorsal refers instead to the upper or superior portion of the brain. brain - the organ in the body that is responsible for thought, memory, sensory interpretation, movement, and other vital functions. A structure in the forebrain that is an important component of the limbic system and plays a central role in emotional learning, particularly within the context of fear. New York City Regional Brain Bee Competition. A technology used to record electrical activity of the human brain in response to a variety of stimuli and activities. Many kinds of stress have a negative effect on the body, but some kinds can be helpful. This genetic anomaly is associated with physical and developmental characteristics, including mild to moderate intellectual disabilities; low muscle tone; and an increased risk of congenital heart defects, respiratory problems, and digestive tract obstruction. Ask a neuroscientist your questions about the brain. Involuntary (exogenous) attention is an unplanned focus on a change in the environment, such as a loud noise or sudden movement. The large bundle of nerve fibers linking the left and right cerebral hemispheres. Also called the medulla oblongata, a structure of the brainstem that controls basic functions like swallowing, breathing, and heart rate. A process by which released neurotransmitters are absorbed for later reuse. CSF bathes the brain and spinal cord, giving them support and buoyancy to protect from injury. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Brain, the mass of nerve tissue in the anterior end of an organism. A major cause of dementia in the elderly, this neurodegenerative disorder is characterized by the death of neurons in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and other brain regions. Chemical messengers released by neurons at a synapse for the purpose of relaying information to other cells. A complex brain structure composed of many nuclei with various functions, including regulating the activities of internal organs, monitoring information from the autonomic nervous system, controlling the pituitary gland, and regulating sleep and appetite. Small cylindrical organelles inside cells that provide energy for the cell by converting sugar and oxygen into special energy molecules, called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). News and analysis on the implications of brain science on society. Specialized cells that nourish and support neurons. regulates and guides the other parts of the nervous system. A technique that can quantitatively measure the strength of activity in various regions of the brain at millisecond resolution. It regulates unconscious coordination of movement. SSRIs are used to treat depression and other disorders. A small, pitted area in the center of the retina where visual acuity is highest, due to a high density of cones. A state of arousal in which the brain’s sensory processing is directed at a limited number of stimuli. Nerve growth factor also probably helps to sustain neurons in adults. A hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland that initiates the release of milk from mammary glands and stimulates uterine contractions. . © 2020 The Dana Foundation. Definition of brain in English: brain. This glossary provides information and definitions of medical terms associated with brain injury and rehabilitation to help you or your family. A technology that uses magnetic fields to detect activity in the brain by monitoring blood flow. A class of drugs that enhance activity of the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), to produce sedative and anti-anxiety effects. These structures include the caudate nucleus, putamen, nucleus accumbens, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra. It also may be involved in aspects of motor learning. A small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin. The progressive destruction and loss of neurons. Symptoms include slowness of movement, muscular rigidity, and walking and balance impairment. The part of the sleep cycle when active dreaming takes place. The brain integrates sensory information and directs motor responses; in higher vertebrates it is also the centre of learning. A hormone manufactured by the adrenal cortex. In humans, cortisol is secreted in the greatest quantities before dawn, readying the body for the activities of the coming day. All Rights Reserved. Cerebral Cortex Outermost layer (the gray matter) of the cerebral hemisphere. Glossary of terms. The vocabulary of brain and spine disorders can be dense and unfamiliar. Photo Source: 123RF.com. A long-lasting increase in synaptic strength resulting from an increased number of neurotransmitter receptors on the post-synaptic neuron. A catecholamine neurotransmitter produced both in the brain and in the peripheral nervous system. Large groove in the brain that separates the frontal and parietal lobes. CEREBELLUM - The lower part of the brain that is beneath the posterior portion of the cerebrum. Small proteins in the nervous system that are necessary for the development, function, and survival of specific groups of neurons. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. A type of declarative memory consisting primarily of memory of personal experiences. An anxiety disorder characterized by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that attempt to mitigate the obsessions. An endocrine organ that secretes hormones. Any external stimulus that threatens homeostasis. A change in a neuron’s membrane potential in which the cytoplasm becomes more negatively charged and therefore less likely to fire an action potential. A movement disorder caused by the death of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra, located in the midbrain. The inner portion (adrenal medulla) secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine in concert with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system in the “fight or flight” response. This technology is noninvasive and does not expose the body to X-rays or other radiation. A condition that results from the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Some of these nerves transmit sensory information; some control the movement of face, head, and neck muscles; others transmit information to internal organs to regulate functions such as blood pressure and heart rate. Glutamate stimulates N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA). Acetylcholine A neurotransmitter that plays an important role in attention, learning, and memory. The voltage difference between the inside and outside of a neuron. Neurons using serotonin as a transmitter are found in the brain and gut. A sex hormone produced primarily in the testes but also in lower amounts in the adrenal cortex and ovaries. The temporal lobe functions in auditory perception, speech, and complex visual perceptions. The parietal lobe plays a role in sensory processes, attention, and language. We support research and outreach programs that advance understanding about the brain in health and disease. Norepinephrine is involved in arousal and sleep regulation, mood, and blood pressure. A catecholamine neurotransmitter present in three circuits of the brain: one that regulates movement; a second, thought to be important for cognition and emotion; and a third that regulates the endocrine system. acetylcholinesterase enzyme at motor end-plate responsible for rapid destruction of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z All . The brainstem includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla, and it controls, among other things, respiration and the regulation of heart rhythms. 1 An organ of soft nervous tissue contained in the skull of vertebrates, functioning as the coordinating center of sensation and intellectual and nervous activity. A branch of the autonomic nervous system responsible for mobilizing the body's energy and resources during times of stress and arousal. It functions as a primary receiver, organizer, and distributor of information for the body. A region at the front of the frontal lobe involved in the brain’s higher-level functions such as planning, decision-making, working memory, and inhibitory control. A bundle of nerve fibers running through the vertebral column that primarily functions to facilitate communication between the brain and the rest of the body. A condition characterized by excessively inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive behaviors. A cycle of behavior or physiological change lasting approximately 24 hours. Find educational handouts, fact sheets, booklets, and more to share! A sleep disorder in which people have trouble falling and/or staying asleep. When you or someone you know sustains a traumatic brain … The part of the brain that contains myelinated nerve fibers. A structure consisting of two egg-shaped masses of nerve tissue, each about the size of a walnut, deep within the brain. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and insomnia. A part of the hindbrain that, with other brain structures, controls respiration and regulates heart rhythms. A hormone released by the adrenal medulla and specialized sites in the brain. brainstem or brain stem - the base of the brain. amygdala: Part of the brain involved in memory and emotion. acetylcholine an ester of choline found in many tissue, synapses & neuromuscular junctions, where it is a neural transmitter. A protective membrane composed of tightly packed endothelial cells lining the brain’s capillaries and highly specialized astrocytes, which controls the passage of certain molecules into and out of the brain. The bundle of neurons that transmit information from the retina to the brain. Brain Functions. A region of the parietal lobe responsible for processing touch and pain signals from the body. The most anterior segment of the brainstem. The word can also be used as a verb in the phrase "to brain," which means to injure or kill someone by hitting them in the head. The white matter gets its color from myelin, the insulation covering nerve fibers. Chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands to regulate the activity of target cells. With the pons and medulla, the midbrain is involved in many functions, including regulation of heart rate, respiration, pain perception, and movement. Neurotransmitters produced in the brain that generate cellular and behavioral effects like those of morphine. By continuing to use this site, you agree that you are OK with it. An "A to Z" dictionary of spine terms translated into patient-friendly language. Twelve pairs of nerves that can be seen on the bottom surface of the brain. One of the four subdivisions of the cerebral cortex. A change in a neuron’s membrane potential in which the cytoplasm becomes more positively charged. A part of the peripheral nervous system responsible for regulating the activity of internal organs. A large structure located at the roof of the hindbrain that helps to control the coordination of movement by making connections to the pons, medulla, spinal cord, and thalamus. We are a private philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing understanding about the brain. A type of glial cell in the central nervous system that forms myelin. A collection of brain regions activated during quiet rest. Local inflammatory responses in the body trigger the release of histamines from immune cells. A movement that occurs without conscious control, such as a reflex. The Brain. The rod is sensitive to light of low intensity and is specialized for nighttime vision. A monoamine neurotransmitter believed to play many roles, including but not limited to temperature regulation, sensory perception, and the onset of sleep. A decline in cognitive ability that interferes with day-to-day functioning. In the final stages, individuals are incapable of self-care and may be bedridden. Glial cells in the central nervous system that function as resident immune cells. A state of heightened arousal characterized by intense worry. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. - comprised of the brain and spinal cord. One of the four major subdivisions of each hemisphere of the cerebral cortex. A group of interconnected structures located deep in the brain that play an important role in voluntary movement, motor skill learning, and habits. The process by which action potentials “jump” along the unmyelinated nodes of Ranvier, speeding electrical transmission. Unmyelinated gaps in an axon’s myelin sheath along which electrical impulses travel. A nerve ending, cell, or group of cells specialized to sense or receive light. It has a right half and a left half, each of which is called a hemisphere. The human brain weighs approximately 1.4 kg (3 pounds) and is made up of billions of cells called neurons . Terms in this set (80) central nervous system. The major route by which the forebrain sends information to and receives information from the spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Axons of these sensory cells pass through perforations in the overlying bone and enter two elongated olfactory bulbs lying on top of the bone. This sets the pace for daily cycles of activity, sleep, hormone release, and other bodily functions. It includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The ability to understand the mental states and thoughts of others and oneself. A chronic disorder characterized by psychosis (e.g., hallucinations and delusions), flattened emotions, and impaired cognitive function. brain. A type of neuron (or neurotransmitter) that excites target neurons and increases the likelihood of their firing an action potential. Adenosine levels decrease during sleep. A disorder characterized by repeated seizures, which are caused by abnormal excitation of large groups of neurons in various brain regions. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The ventral striatum consists of the nucleus accumbens and the olfactory tubercle, while the dorsal striatum consists of the caudate and putamen. Stimulation of NMDA receptors may promote beneficial changes, whereas overstimulation may be a cause of nerve cell damage or death in neurological trauma and stroke. A nerve cell specialized for the transmission of information and characterized by long, fibrous projections called axons and shorter, branchlike projections called dendrites. A branch of the autonomic nervous system concerned with the conservation of the body's energy and resources during relaxed states. Executive function comprises impulse control, working memory, and mental flexibility. Programmed cell death induced by specialized biochemical pathways, often serving a specific purpose in the development of an animal. Voluntary (endogenous) attention is a conscious decision to focus on a particular stimulus. Talking TBI: A Glossary of Formal and Informal Terms Used to Describe TBI Treatment, Professionals, and More. A set of conditions characterized, in part, by impaired social communication and interaction, and narrow, obsessive interests or repetitive behaviors. The following article has a glossary list that will help you understand these difficult scientific terms and definitions at a glance.Just read on the following glossary to get a quick idea about some interesting terms. The tenth cranial nerve, it transmits signals from the brain to the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. A technique that uses magnetic fields to create a high-quality, three-dimensional image of organs and structures inside the body. It then serves to put the body into a general state of arousal, which enables it to cope with the challenge. 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We use cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website cord, giving them support buoyancy! That enhance nociceptor sensitivity to increase pain and prevent further tissue damage or!