Development of Nervous system

Definition

The nervous system is a network of specialized cells that communicate information about an animals surroundings and its self, it processes this information and causes reactions in other parts of the body. It is composed of neurons and other specialized cells called glia, that aid in the function of the neurons. The nervous system is divided broadly into two categories; the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system. Neurons generate and conduct impulses between and within the two systems. The peripheral nervous system is composed of sensory neurons and the neurons that connect them to the nerve cord, spinal cord and brain, which make up the central nervous system. In response to stimuli, sensory neurons generate and propagate signals to the central nervous system which then process and conduct back signals to the muscles and glands. The neurons of the nervous systems of animals are interconnected in complex arrangements and use electrochemical signals and neurotransmitters to transmit impulses from one neuron to the next. The interaction of the different neurons form neural circuits that regulate an organisms perception of the world and what is going on with its body, thus regulating its behavior. Nervous systems are found in many multicellular animals but differ greatly in complexity between species.[1]

About the Speaker

This Lecture is conducted by Professor Marian Diamond who is first women science faculty Berkely,her current research is on environmental effects on the structure and function of the brain

Professor Diamond's discovery that the brain continues to develop at any age with proper stimulation has revolutionized thinking about aging. An equally significant finding of Daimond's is that female and male brains are structured differently. Her studies conclusively show that positive, nurturing environments that encourage interaction and response are the prime conditions for developing the more complex neural networks that appear to be the "hardware" of intelligence. Her work also indicates the ongoing influence of environment, experience, learning, and emotions on neural equipment throughout life- for better or for worse.