04 3 / 2011
![fuckyeahnervoussystem:
scipsy:
Pyramidal neurons (Michael Häusser and Hermann Cuntz, UCL)
This computer simulated image shows synthetic pyramidal neurons, of optimised size, shape and connectivity, that are indistinguishable from those found in the real biological brain. Pyramidal cells are so-called as they have a pyramid-shaped cell body (soma), and are also characterised by long branching dendrites. They are found in the forebrain (cortex and hippocampus) of mammals and are thought to be involved in cognitive function. (via Wellcome Image Awards 2011)
These neurons can be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways (impossible with real neurons), allowing scientists to unravel the complex controls governing how axons and dendrites branch. Software such as this is a useful tool in understanding how individual neurons are constructed and connected. This gives an insight into their function, which is crucial to understanding what goes wrong in many neurological disorders.
[source]](http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lh43jkrmj51qb3iw0o1_500.jpg)
Pyramidal neurons (Michael Häusser and Hermann Cuntz, UCL)
This computer simulated image shows synthetic pyramidal neurons, of optimised size, shape and connectivity, that are indistinguishable from those found in the real biological brain. Pyramidal cells are so-called as they have a pyramid-shaped cell body (soma), and are also characterised by long branching dendrites. They are found in the forebrain (cortex and hippocampus) of mammals and are thought to be involved in cognitive function. (via Wellcome Image Awards 2011)
These neurons can be manipulated and viewed in a number of different ways (impossible with real neurons), allowing scientists to unravel the complex controls governing how axons and dendrites branch. Software such as this is a useful tool in understanding how individual neurons are constructed and connected. This gives an insight into their function, which is crucial to understanding what goes wrong in many neurological disorders.
[source]
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