In this video I continue covering parts of the brain and move to the subcortical structures of the forebrain including the thalamus, pituitary gland, limbic system (hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala), basal ganglia, and corpus callosum. I also mention the Genes … Read More
Parts of the Brain: Hindbrain Structures
In this video I explain the main regions of the brain: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, as well as the difference between the “old” and “new” brain in evolutionary terms. Then the location and function of four main areas of … Read More
Brain Scanning and Imaging Techniques
In this video I briefly explain how information can be collected about the structure and function of a living brain using scanning and imaging techniques including EEG, CAT scan, PET scan, MRI, fMRI, and DTI. Don’t forget to subscribe to … Read More
Early Ways of Studying the Brain
In this video I discuss early approaches to studying the brain by looking at cases of brain damage and attempting to connect areas of damage to deficits or changes in behavior. The case of Phineas Gage is considered, as well … Read More
Organization of the Nervous System
In this video I describe the organization of the nervous system, which includes the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, which is then divided into the somatic and autonomic divisions. Next I discuss the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems … Read More
Drugs and Neurotransmitters: Agonist or Antagonist?
In this video I discuss some ways that drugs can influence the functioning of neurotransmitters by binding to receptors on postsynaptic neurons. I explain the difference between agonist drugs which increase effects of a neurotransmitter and antagonist drugs which reduce … Read More
Introduction to Neurotransmitters
In this video I introduce several neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, serotonin, and norepinephrine. I also describe some of the functions of each of these neurotransmitters, with the caveat to avoid oversimplifying the role of neurotransmitters in explaining complex behaviors. … Read More
What Happens to Neurotransmitters After Release?
In this video I explain what else can happen to a neurotransmitter after release (besides binding to a receptor on the postsynaptic neuron). These include reuptake, enzyme deactivation, and autoreception, and I provide mnemonics for remembering each of these processes. … Read More
The Action Potential
In this video I explain how an action potential is triggered in a neuron when it reaches its threshold. I explain the movement of ions, resting potential, and the all or none principle of neural firing. I also cover how … Read More
Neuron Structure: Parts of a Neuron
In this video I describe the major parts of a neuron and briefly explain the function that each part serves. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel to see future videos! Have questions or topics you’d like to see covered … Read More