Question

Anthony is correct that there are chemicals in the brain that help neurons survive, help promote neural growth, and are involved in neurogenesis.

What are these chemicals called?
What are two main ones that you’ve learned about?
Do all neurons receive these chemicals? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Neurotrophins like BDNF and NGF are the chemicals that aid neuron survival, growth, and neurogenesis; however, not all neurons receive these chemicals due to factors like neuron type and receptor presence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemicals in the brain that help neurons survive, promote neural growth, and are involved in neurogenesis are known as neurotrophins. Two main neurotrophins are Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Not all neurons receive these chemicals because the distribution of neurotrophins is not uniform across different regions of the brain, and specific neurons respond to specific neurotrophins. Factors such as neuron type, location in the nervous system, and the presence of specific receptors determine whether a neuron will receive these chemicals. Moreover, the availability of neurotrophins can be influenced by physiological activities such as exercise and stress levels.

Answer 2

Neurotrophins and growth factors such as BDNF and NGF are chemicals that support neuron survival and growth, but not all neurons receive these chemicals equally. The distribution depends on various factors, including neuronal need and brain area. These chemicals are also crucial for neurogenesis, particularly in the hippocampus where they contribute to learning and memory.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemicals in the brain that help neurons survive, promote neural growth, and are involved in neurogenesis are known as neurotrophins and growth factors. Two main ones that are commonly studied are Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). These substances play key roles in the development and survival of neurons in the nervous system.

However, not all neurons receive these chemicals. The distribution of neurotrophins and growth factors depends on the neurons' requirements and the areas of the brain in question. Factors such as neuronal activity, injury, and disease can influence the availability and effect of these chemicals on different neurons. Therefore, the supply of these chemicals is not uniform across all neurons.

The prominence of neurotrophins and growth factors is also evident in the process of neurogenesis, where new neurons are born. For example, in the hippocampus, a brain structure involved in learning and memory, approximately 1000 new neurons develop each day, and the survival of these new neurons can be influenced by experiences, exercise, and even medications. Stress, conversely, can negatively affect this process. Glial cells also contribute to the neural environment by supporting and protecting neurons. The interplay between neurons, neurotrophins, growth factors, and glia underscores the complexity of the brain's chemistry and its impact on neural function.