We have neurons, with myelin sheaths on the axons. We have synapses between the neurons. What's the good in knowing these things? You might as well be talking about features of Mars, for all that it relates to our daily lives, right? Wrong. Do you know anyone with multiple sclerosis? MS involves the destruction of myelin. Who cares what a synapse is, and what happens in it? Communication among neurons occurs in the synapses, through neurotransmitters. Psychological depression and schizophrenia are greatly involved with neurotransmitters. Glial cells support, nurture, and direct other neurons. Research is being done to see if glial cells can be affected in a way that would prevent or be a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. More and more is being learned about the brain every day. Knowledge in this area is exploding, and will continue to do so in the years ahead. It's an exciting time in the neurosciences. What breakthroughs are you aware of, and what breakthroughs would you like to see happen in the near future?
We have neurons, with myelin sheaths on the axons. We have synapses between the neurons. What's the good in knowing these things? You might as well be talking about features of Mars, for all that it relates to our daily lives, right? Wrong. Do you know anyone with multiple sclerosis? MS involves the destruction of myelin. Who cares what a synapse is, and what happens in it? Communication among neurons occurs in the synapses, through neurotransmitters. Psychological depression and schizophrenia are greatly involved with neurotransmitters. Glial cells support, nurture, and direct other neurons. Research is being done to see if glial cells can be affected in a way that would prevent or be a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. More and more is being learned about the brain every day. Knowledge in this area is exploding, and will continue to do so in the years ahead. It's an exciting time in the neurosciences. What breakthroughs are you aware of, and what breakthroughs would you like to see happen in the near future?
