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Neuroscience Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neuroscience

[หŒnjสŠษ™roสŠหˆsaษชษ™ns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

scientific study

Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system, encompassing the brain, spinal cord, and neural networks throughout the body. It aims to understand the biological basis of behavior and cognitive functions. This field combines elements of biology, psychology, chemistry, and physics to explore how various components of the nervous system interact. Neuroscience is crucial in advancing our knowledge of diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as well as mental health disorders.

Synonyms

brain science, cognitive science, neurobiology.

Examples of usage

  • She pursued a degree in neuroscience to understand brain functions.
  • Recent advances in neuroscience have led to new treatments for depression.
  • The conference focused on the latest discoveries in neuroscience.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'neuroscience' gained popularity in the 1970s, combining multiple areas of brains and behavior studies.
  • Early studies in the field began in the 19th century when scientists started to explore the connections between brain anatomy and functions.

Science

  • Neuroscience is interdisciplinary, blending biology, psychology, medicine, and even computer science to understand brain functions.
  • The human brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons, each capable of forming thousands of connections.
  • Research in neuroscience has led to groundbreaking treatments for conditions like Alzheimerโ€™s, Parkinsonโ€™s, and depression.

Technology

  • Advances in neuroimaging techniques like fMRI and PET scans allow scientists to map brain activity in real-time.
  • Neuroprosthetics are devices that can replace or enhance the functions of nervous system components, such as artificial limbs controlled by thought.

Health and Psychology

  • Neuroscience plays a crucial role in understanding mental health disorders, helping to develop better treatment strategies.
  • Studies show that engaging in physical activity can promote brain health by stimulating the growth of new neurons, a process called neurogenesis.

Pop Culture

  • Neuroscience concepts are becoming popular in media, influencing everything from movies to self-help books focused on mind control and cognitive improvement.
  • Certain video games are designed based on neuroscience principles to boost cognitive skills like memory and attention.

Origin of 'neuroscience'

The term 'neuroscience' was coined in the 1970s, combining 'neuro,' which comes from the Greek word 'neuron,' meaning nerve, and 'science,' reflecting the increasing discipline's rigorous study of the nervous system. Early studies focused on the anatomy of the nervous system but expanded considerably with the advent of advanced imaging techniques and molecular biology. Over the decades, neuroscience has evolved into an interdisciplinary field, incorporating genetics, psychology, and pharmacology to analyze the complex interactions within the nervous system. Today, it encompasses various subfields such as cognitive neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience, and computational neuroscience, making it a vibrant area of research in understanding not only the biological mechanisms behind various functions but also their implications in behavior and cognition.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,796, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.