Neurological Development - (Second Edition) (Reader's Edition) (With CD-ROM)

Author: Saz
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: The human brain is the most complex object known in the world. Although our understanding of the brain is still far from complete, studying how neurons and glial cells that make up the nervous system generate sensory, behavioral, and higher mental activities has become one of the most fruitful areas of scientific research. The brain's structure is an integrated whole of developmental stages, starting from the initial few embryonic cells that become neural precursor cells, to the emergence of behavior. This is the content covered in this book. The book is comprehensive, using well-known experiments and observations as examples to introduce the fundamental principles of nervous system development. It serves as a university textbook, covering all major topics, including growth patterns of the nervous system, neuron determination, axon guidance and targets, neuron apoptosis, synaptic formation, and plasticity. The second edition includes new content that introduces the latest developments in the field, such as research on model organisms, the application of molecular and genetic techniques, and the introduction of new imaging technologies, among others. The purpose of this book is to provide a concise outline of the process of neural development for advanced students and researchers with some background in biology, which is entirely different from the purpose of a comprehensive literature review. The book is richly illustrated with clear and concise text, making it an excellent reference for students new to the field. It is also accompanied by a CD-ROM containing beautifully illustrated color images.