Neural Connections
The human brain has roughly 100 billion neurons, which are designed to receive,
process and transmit information. Similar to other cells in the body, neurons
have a nucleus and cytoplasm, but they differ in that they also have distinct
cellular extensions called axons and dendrites. Axons allow neurons to send
information to neighboring cells. Dendrites serve as cellular ìantennaeî for
receiving signals from other cells.
The point of connection between two neurons is called the synapse. A variety of
molecules, including carbohydrates, proteins and neurotransmitters, populate the
synapse, and interactions among these molecules control how neurons behave.
Each neuron can make over a thousand connections with neighboring cells.
One goal of our laboratory is to identify and understand chemical changes
associated with learning and memory. A widely held hypothesis for how
memories are encoded is that experience or training induces chemical changes
at the synapse between excited neurons. These changes modulate the
connectivity and efficacy of neuronal communication, and memories are stored
as specific synaptic connections are reinforced and grow stronger over time.
The human brain contains from 10 to 100 billion neurons, and each has hundreds of
connections with neighboring neurons. Making sense of these intricate connections is
essential to understanding brain function, and the task is a monumental one.