Neurons and dendrites

What can we learn from the growth of neurons?

[Answer]

Neurons, the most abundant cells in the brain and central nervous system, enable all human functioning. Understanding how neurons grow and develop provides insights into how they function normally, and in developmental conditions such as schizophrenia and autism.

These images were taken over 60 hours using a time-lapse microscope, and show embryonic neurons as they develop

The branch-like structures that emerge from each developing neuron are dendrites. They are the channels by which electrochemical signals reach other neurons. The structure and branching patterns of dendrites affect how neurons function, and can be influenced by the environment in which neurons grow.

  Source: Dr. Albert Wong, Dr. Fang Liu, Dr. Frankie Lee