Development of the nervous system in humans

Development of the Nervous System in Humans

The development of the nervous system in humans, or Human Neurodevelopment, is a complex process that begins during the embryonic period and continues into adulthood. This process involves the formation and specialization of neurons, the primary cells of the nervous system, and their organization into functional networks.

Overview

The human nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which consists of nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord. The development of these systems involves a series of stages, including neurogenesis, neuronal migration, neuronal differentiation, and synaptogenesis.

Neurogenesis

File:Neurogenesis.jpg

Neurogenesis in the human brain

Neurogenesis is the process by which neurons are generated from neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells. This process begins in the third week of embryonic development in the neural tube, a structure that will eventually give rise to the entire nervous system.

Neuronal Migration

Following neurogenesis, neurons must migrate to their final destinations. This process is guided by various molecular cues, which direct the neurons along specific pathways. Errors in neuronal migration can lead to various neurodevelopmental disorders, such as lissencephaly and schizencephaly.

Neuronal Differentiation

Once neurons have reached their final locations, they must differentiate into specific types of neurons. This process is regulated by a variety of transcription factors, which control the expression of genes that determine the characteristics of the neurons.

Synaptogenesis

The final stage in the development of the nervous system is synaptogenesis, the formation of synapses between neurons. This process allows for the establishment of functional neural circuits, which are essential for all aspects of nervous system function.

Disorders of Neurodevelopment

Disruptions in any stage of neurodevelopment can lead to a variety of disorders, including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. Understanding the processes involved in neurodevelopment is therefore crucial for developing treatments for these and other neurological disorders.

See Also

• Neurodevelopmental disorder
• Neural tube
• Neurogenesis
• Neuronal migration
• Neuronal differentiation
• Synaptogenesis

References

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