The Developing Brain and Its Connections describes the processes of neural development from neural induction through synaptic refinement. Each chapter explores specific mechanisms of development and describes key experiments from invertebrate and vertebrate animal models. By highlighting experimental methods and explaining how hypotheses evolve over time, readers learn essential facts while strengthening their appreciation of the scientific method. Discussions of neurodevelopmental disorders and therapeutic approaches to them bridge basic science discoveries with the clinical aspects of the field. Descriptions of recent work by student researchers and medical residents demonstrate career pathways and options for those interested in pursuing any area neural development. With this distinctive approach, easy-to-follow writing style, and clear illustrations, The Developing Brain presents an accessible approach to neural development for undergraduate students.
Related Titles
Luo, L. Principles of Neurobiology, 2nd edition (ISBN 9780815346050)
Simon, S. A., series ed. Frontiers in Neuroscience https://www.routledge.com/Frontiers-in-Neuroscience/book-series/CRCFRONEUSCI
Feltz, A., ed. Physiology of Neurons (ISBN 978-0-8153-4600-5)
Author Biography
Preface
1. An Introduction to the Field of Developmental Neurobiology
2. Neural Induction
3. Segmentation of the Anterior– Posterior Axis
4. Patterning along the Dorsal– Ventral Axis
5. Proliferation and Migration of Neurons
6. Cell Determination and Early Differentiation
7. Neurite Outgrowth, Axonal Pathfi nding, and Initial Target Selection
8. Neuronal Survival and Programmed Cell Death
9. Synaptic Formation and Reorganization Part I: The Neuromuscular Junction
10. Synaptic Formation and Reorganization Part II: Synapses in the Central Nervous System Glossary
Index
Biography
Lynne M. Bianchi is Emerita Professor of Neuroscience at Oberlin College where she taught and mentored undergraduate students for over 20 years. She is currently the Director of Medical Research for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hamot and Gannon University where she supports investigators interested in clinical and basic science research. In addition to her work investigating the role of nerve growth factors during embryonic development, she mentors young clinician-scientists as they develop their ideas into exciting research projects.
"The book provides in-depth coverage of developmental neurobiology for an undergraduate course. It provides useful updates for a rapidly moving field." Liqun Luo (Stanford University and author of Principles of Neurobiology, 2nd ed.)
"The book fills an important gap. It is quite comprehensive and covers the field of developmental neurobiology in unparalleled detail." Alexander Jaworski (Brown University)
"…. stimulating me to consider reviving my upper-level developmental neurobiology course, … a refreshingly powerful new textbook … because it is so obviously designed with advanced undergraduate readers in mind … skillfully shares the wonder and mysteries of how the nervous system arises for an undergraduate audience. It is a thoughtful textbook that provides a strong resource to our community and our students …" The Journal of Undergraduate Neuroscience Education
