Neurodevelopment

Neurodevelopment refers to the processes that generate, shape, and reshape the nervous system, from the earliest stages of embryogenesis to the final years of life. The field of neurodevelopment includes studies of cellular processes, such as neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuronal migration, as well as larger-scale processes such as neural circuit formation.

Overview

Neurodevelopment begins with the formation of the neural tube in the embryo. This structure gives rise to both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes all other neural tissues.

Stages of Neurodevelopment

Neurogenesis

Neurogenesis is the process by which neurons are generated from neural stem cells and progenitor cells. This process is most active during pre-natal development and is responsible for populating the growing brain with neurons.

Neuronal Migration

Neuronal migration is the method by which neurons travel from their birthplace to their final position in the brain. Defects in this process have been implicated in many neurological disorders, including lissencephaly and schizencephaly.

Synaptogenesis

Synaptogenesis is the formation of synapses between neurons in the nervous system. Although it occurs throughout a healthy person's lifespan, an explosion of synapse formation occurs during early brain development, known as exuberant synaptogenesis.

Neural Circuit Formation

Neural circuit formation is the process by which neural connections are created and modified. This process is crucial for the correct functioning of the nervous system and is guided by both intrinsic factors, such as genetic determinants, and extrinsic factors, such as neurotrophic factors.

Disorders of Neurodevelopment

Disorders of neurodevelopment can arise from a variety of genetic and environmental factors and can have profound effects on an individual's cognitive and physical abilities. Examples of neurodevelopmental disorders include autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Down syndrome.

See Also

• Neuroscience
• Developmental biology
• Neurodevelopmental disorder
• Neural tube