Glossary

Here you will find all the key concepts and notions of neuroscience. An essential resource for those who would like to better understand the brain and how it works!

Word of the day

Ionic channel: A small pore composed of a protein located on the cell surface that allows ions such as sodium, potassium or calcium to pass through.

Action potential :: Transient and rapid change in the electrical potential at the surface of a cell.
Adrenaline (or epinephrine) :: A neurotransmitter secreted in response to stress or related to the preparation of physical activity.
Afferent nerve :: A bundle of nerve fibres (neurons) carry nerve impulses from sensory receptors (periphery) to the central nervous system.
Amygdala :: An almond-shaped structure of the brain located in the pharynx.
Amyloid :: A protein found in the brain and, to a lesser extent, in the bloodstream.
Aphasia :: Language impairment characterized by difficulty expressing or understanding words.
Apoptosis :: Programmed cell death mechanism.
Apraxie :: Disorder characterized by difficulties in performing certain voluntary movements.
Arachnoid mater :: The middle layer of the meninges protecting the central nervous system.
Astrocyte :: A glial cell in the star-shaped brain that protects neurons.
Axone :: Efferent extension of neurons.