Building Brains: An Introduction to Neural Development, 2^nd Edition describes how brains construct themselves, from simple beginnings in the early embryo to become the most complex living structures on the planet. It explains how cells first become neural, how their proliferation is controlled, what regulates the types of neural cells they become, how neurons connect to each other, how these connections are later refined under the influence of neural activity, and why some neurons normally die. This student-friendly guide stresses and justifies the generally-held belief that a greater knowledge of how nervous systems construct themselves will help us find new ways of treating diseases of the nervous system that are thought to originate from faulty development, such as autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and schizophrenia.

• A concise, illustrated guide focusing on core elements and emphasizing common principles of developmental mechanisms, supplemented by suggestions for further reading
• Text boxes provide detail on major advances, issues of particular uncertainty or controversy, and examples of human diseases that result from abnormal development
• Introduces the methods for studying neural development, allowing the reader to understand the main evidence underlying research advances
• Offers a balanced mammalian/non-mammalian perspective (and emphasizes mechanisms that are conserved across species), drawing on examples from model organisms like the fruit fly, nematode worm, frog, zebrafish, chick, mouse and human
• Associated Website includes all the figures from the textbook and explanatory movies

Filled with full-colorartwork that reinforces important concepts; an extensive glossary and definitions that help readers from different backgrounds; and chapter summaries that stress important points and aid revision, Building Brains: An Introduction to Neural Development, 2^nd Edition is perfect for undergraduate students and postgraduates who may not have a background in neuroscience and/or molecular genetics.

About the Author

Contents

Chapter 1 Models and Methods for Studying Neural Development
Chapter 2 The Anatomy of Developing Nervous Systems
Chapter 3 Neural Induction: An Example of How Intercellular Signalling Determines Cell Fates
Chapter 4 Patterning the Neuroectoderm
Chapter 5 Neurogenesis: Generating Neural Cells
Chapter 6 How Neurons Develop Their Shapes
Chapter 7 Neuronal Migration
Chapter 8 Axon Guidance
Chapter 9 Life and Death in the Developing Nervous System
Chapter 10 Map Formation
Chapter 11 Maturation of Functional Properties
Chapter 12 Experience-Dependent Development