Abstract Chemical synapse, in which the signal is relayed by means of a chemical messenger called a neurotransmitter. Arrival of an action potential triggers neurotransmitter release into the synaptic cleft,…
Abstract An action potential is a transient reversal of the membrane potential that occurs in excitable cells, including neurons, muscle cells and some endocrine cells. The action potential is an…
Abstract The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system (CNS), located within the spinal canal of the vertebral column. The spinal cord begins at the foramen magnum, where…
Abstract The cell membrane provides a selectively permeant electrical barrier between the intracellular and extracellular compartments. The membrane potential of a cell is the electrical voltage of its interior relative…
Abstract The intracranial pressure (ICP) is simply the hydrostatic pressure within the skull, reflecting the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain parenchyma. At rest in a normal supine…
Abstract In the adult, cerebral blood flow (CBF) is typically 15% of the resting cardiac output (approximately 750 mL/min). CBF is commonly expressed in terms of the weight of brain…
Abstract The nervous system is a complex network of specialised cells called neurons, which coordinate and control the other organ systems. Chapter 44 Neuronal Structure and Function What are the…
Abstract The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a physiological, cellular and metabolic barrier at the level of the cerebral capillaries. Their permeability properties restrict the free movement of substances between the…
Abstract The brain performs complex sensory, motor and higher functions, coordinating the activity of other body systems. It has a high metabolic activity, receiving 15% of the resting cardiac output,…
Abstract Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the transcellular fluid located within the cerebral ventricles and subarachnoid space that bathes the brain and spinal cord. CSF has a number of functions. Chapter…
