For decades the focus of neuroscience was on neurons, but as research techniques and technology progresses we are beginning to understand the brain as never before. The importance of neurons cannot be downplayed, and yet scientists are coming to realise that there are many other elements involved in brain development. Cilia are slender, hair-like organelles…
Tag: neurons
Neuronal Behaviour in Learning and Memory May Be Influenced by Glial Cells
Are neurons all they’re cracked up to be? For decades, we have believed the neuron to be the king of all cells. Neurons are grown at a rate of 250,000 cells per minute in utero, culminating in a fully grown brain with 100 billion neurons, and over 100 trillion neuronal connections. This is more than all…
A Salty Brain May Stop You From Sleeping
Many of us know what it’s like to suffer through a bad night’s sleep. We toss and turn, our thoughts doing likewise, and no matter how we lie we just can’t get comfortable. Our body is screaming at us to go to sleep but our brains are resolutely refusing to do so. Many believe this restlessness to…
The Importance of the Blood Brain Barrier
Blood is composed of many different materials, including both small and large molecules, fats and bacteria. Activities such as eating and exercise can significantly alter the composition of our blood, which in turn can have an effect on how the body functions. Some of the materials found in the blood following these activities can actually be…
Gingernut's Science Dunk 