Brain Architecture
Brain Architecture
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Nervous System
Nervous System is the communication network of our body
It includes the brain, spinal cord, and a complex network of nerves.
The brain is what controls all the body's functions.
Nervous system carries messages back and forth between the brain and the body.
Neurons are the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system. It is estimated that the brain has more than 86 billion neurons.
These are cells that act as sensors as well as motors (actuators).
As sensors these are responsible for receiving sensory input from the external world.
As actuators they send motor commands to our muscles.
For example, when the hand touches a hot object, the signal goes to the ‘sensor’ neurons which in turn passes on this information to the ‘actuator’ neuron that instructs the muscles to withdraw immediately.
This communication of ‘threat’ from sensor to actuator neuron happens via neurotransmitters.
Brain Parts
Unlike general perception, human brain is not a unitary entity. It is an extremely complex system comprising of multiple functional units that are interconnected and together provide the overall functionality of brain.
This picture highlights major building blocks with the corresponding functionality they provide.
More Details
For a more detailed look at the Brain Architecture, visit this article by Let's Talk Science
3D Brain Model
If you want to see how different parts of the brain are positioned in the brain, explore it through this Interactive 3D Brain model provided by brainfacts.org
Brain Development
Brain does not keep getting bigger with age. It reaches its largest physical size at the age of around 11 (for girls) and around 14 (for boys). But, the brain continues developing and maturing until mid- to late-20's.
The limbic system (emotional center) develops years ahead of the cortex (thinking and logic center). The cortex is one of the last brain regions to mature and its development continues until age 25 or so.
In teens, connections between limbic system and cortex are still developing, this is the reason for teens being more emotionally charged.
How brains are built over time?
To explore more how brains are built over time, go through this article by Harvard University - Centre on the Developing Child
How experiences build brain architecture
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