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Related Experiment Videos

What is the brain?

L W Swanson1

  • 1The Neuroscience Program, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2520, USA.

Trends in Neurosciences
|November 14, 2000
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The vertebrate central nervous system (CNS) has ten basic structural parts. Current models explain CNS organization through comparative anatomy, embryology, and emerging genetic approaches.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Comparative Anatomy

Background:

  • The vertebrate central nervous system (CNS) is understood to have ten fundamental structural components.
  • Existing models for CNS architecture are based on comparative anatomy, embryology, and genetic programming.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and synthesize current models of vertebrate CNS structural organization.
  • To highlight the integration of classical and novel approaches in understanding CNS architecture.

Main Methods:

  • Review of established theories in comparative anatomy and embryology.
  • Introduction of a novel genetic programming approach to CNS development.
  • Analysis of the simplest current model for mammalian nervous system organization.

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Main Results:

  • Ten basic parts of the vertebrate CNS are widely accepted.
  • Classical models utilize segmental organization (comparative anatomy) and neural tube organization (comparative embryology).
  • A contemporary model integrates a segmental trunk with suprasegmental cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum.

Conclusions:

  • Multiple theoretical frameworks exist for understanding CNS architecture.
  • A genetic approach offers a new perspective on CNS development.
  • The simplest mammalian CNS model emphasizes distinct functional divisions.