neuroscience

Definition

Neuroscience is the multidisciplinary scientific study of the nervous system, encompassing its structure, function, development, genetics, biochemistry, physiology, and pathology. It investigates how neural circuits process information, generate behavior, and give rise to cognition and consciousness. Modern neuroscience integrates molecular and cellular biology with systems-level analysis to understand neurological and psychiatric disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and depression. Key research areas include synaptic transmission, neuroplasticity, neural networks, neurotransmitter systems, and brain-body interactions. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing therapeutic interventions and biomarkers for neurological conditions.

Visualize neuroscience in Nodes Bio

Researchers can visualize complex neural signaling pathways, neurotransmitter receptor interactions, and disease-associated protein networks in Nodes Bio. Map connections between genetic variants, protein aggregates, and phenotypic outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases. Analyze multi-omics data to identify hub genes in neural development or explore drug-target interactions for CNS therapeutics through interactive network graphs.

Example Use Case

A research team investigating Parkinson's disease uses network analysis to map interactions between alpha-synuclein, LRRK2, and mitochondrial proteins. They integrate transcriptomic data from patient-derived neurons with known protein-protein interactions to identify dysregulated pathways. The network reveals unexpected connections between oxidative stress responses and lysosomal dysfunction, suggesting novel therapeutic targets. By overlaying drug-target data, they identify existing compounds that could be repurposed to modulate multiple nodes in the pathogenic network simultaneously.

Related Terms