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Neuroanatomy

Diagram of a neuron

The Neuron

Cells within the nervous system, called neurons, communicate with each other in unique ways. The neuron is the basic working unit of the brain.

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Introduction

Every thought and action is controlled by the brain — the body’s most complex organ. The brain is divided into functional units with particular tasks, like processing visual information or responding to fearful experiences. Each of these units is made up of brain cells that work together. These cells also form connections with cells in other functional units, creating communication routes for brain signals. Using new tools to tag and trace brain circuits, scientists are working to better understand how the human brain is organized to perform its many functions.

Ongoing studies in animals and people are helping scientists recognize the many different types of brain cells and the roles they play. In addition, imaging technology is helping map brain regions responsible for specific functions and behaviors.

Discoveries

A sketch of neuronal shapes by Santiago Ramon y Cajal

Neurons: A Curious Collection of Shapes and Sizes

Source: Society for Neuroscience
Neurons — the nerve cells that make up the brain and nervous system — look different from all other cells in the body. And from one another.
The top image shows the four main sections of the cerebral cortex: the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, the occipital lobe, and the temporal lobe. Functions such as movement are controlled by the motor cortex, and the sensory cortex receives information on vision, hearing, speech, and other senses. The bottom image shows the location of the brain's major internal structures.

Mapping the Brain

Source: Society for Neuroscience
The cerebrum, the largest part of the human brain, is associated with higher order functioning, including the control of voluntary behavior. Thinking, perceiving, planning, and understanding language all lie within the cerebrum’s control.
Person in lab coat and safety glasses rapping

Brain, Brain, The Magical Fruit

Source: Society for Neuroscience

Neuroscience terminology flows better in rap form. Learn about neuroscience from the second place winner of the 2011 Brain Awareness Video Contest.

Grasping a cup, drinking from a cup, and cleaning around a cup exhibit different levels of mirror neuron activity

Mirror Neurons

Source: Society for Neuroscience

The ability to instinctively and immediately understand what other people are experiencing has long baffled neuroscientists, psychologists, and philosophers alike. Research now suggests a fascinating explanation: brain cells called mirror neurons.

V.S. Ramachandran looks deep into the brain’s most basic mechanisms.

V.S. Ramachandran: The Neurons that Shaped Civilization

Source: TED
Neuroscientist Vilayanur Ramachandran outlines the fascinating functions of mirror neurons.

Neuroanatomy in the News

Your Child's Brain On Math: Don't Bother?

Source: Reuters
Date: 30 April 2013
Intense tutoring of children who struggle with mathematics may not work, a research has shown.

Scientists Find Way to Turn Stem Cells Into Brain Cells

Source: U.S. News & World Report
Date: 23 April 2013
Scientists have discovered an antibody that can turn stem cells from a patient's bone marrow directly into brain cells.

Scientists Locate Brain 'Hot Spot' Responsible for Numeral Recognition

Source: FOX News
Date: 17 April 2013
For the first time ever, Stanford scientists have pinpointed a precise spot in the brain responsible for recognition of numerical symbols – such as "6" or "38."
See all Neuroanatomy news »
Download the Brain Facts book.
Animal research. Are mice the best tool to study addiction?
Neuromyth: Do you only use 10 percent of your brain?

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