Discovering Stem Cells

Professor Ronald McKay discusses how he identified stem cells, and how they can explain the fundamental molecular processes of the nervous system.

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1230. Progenitor Cells

Professor Pat Levitt describes progenitor cells, which are immature, undifferentiated cells. They are the precursors to neurons.

  • ID: 1230
  • Source: G2C

1081. Neurogenesis in the Hippocampus and Olfactory Bulb

Professor Ronald McKay explains that neurons in the hippocampus and olfactory bulb are unique in that they are produced throughout life. This is known as neurogenesis.

  • ID: 1081
  • Source: G2C

2059. Synaptic competition

Professor Jeff Lichtman introduces the concept of synaptic competition, the process whereby nerve cells compete for space in the brain - much like protozoa in a very weird pond.

  • ID: 2059
  • Source: G2C

863. Rethinking Glia

It is increasingly clear that the nonneuronal brain cells called glia are intricately involved in the neuronal crosstalk at synapses.

  • ID: 863
  • Source: G2C

1287. Mirror Neurons - Different Types

Researchers have identified three types of mirror neurons that respond to stimuli - 1) in reaching distance, 2) outside of reaching distance, and 3) both distances.

  • ID: 1287
  • Source: G2C

485. GABA Neurotransmitter

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a very common neurotransmitter in the Central Nervous System, whose primary function is to inhibit the transmission of a signal through a neuron.

  • ID: 485
  • Source: G2C

1439. Biochemicals - Excitation and Inhibition

Doctor Josh Dubnau explains that the genes active in different neurons can make them excitatory (e.g. glutamate) or inhibitory (e.g. GABA). These neurotransmitters are critical to learning.

  • ID: 1439
  • Source: G2C

16952. 2D Animation of Intrathecal Drug Delivery for SMA

An animation shows how drugs for SMA may be delivered via infusion into the spinal cord.

  • ID: 16952
  • Source: DNALC.SMA

871. Mirror Neurons and Autism (2)

Abnormalities in a specific type of brain cells called mirror neurons have been associated with autism.

  • ID: 871
  • Source: G2C

1278. Aplysia and Learning

Professor Eric Kandel discusses the attributes that make Aplysia, a type of sea slug, an ideal model for studying learning and memory.

  • ID: 1278
  • Source: G2C