A brief introduction to neuroscience

This chapter presents an overview of neuroscience - the study of the brain -and of behavioral neuroscience - the study of the link between brain and behavior. It describes each of the key structures and functions of the brain. The chapter also serves as a glossary in relation to the two types of cell in the human brain - neurons and glia - and the role of important neurotransmitters in the brain, such as glutamate, dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and vasopressin. The main division in neuroscience is between the central nervous system - the brain and spinal cord - and the peripheral nervous system - the neurons that control bodily responses and provide feedback to the brain. Neuropsychology and neuroimaging methods are used to establish links between the brain's structures and activity. Neuropsychology establishes causal connections and neuroimaging establishes correlational links. Neurons are the critical information processing cells, while glia provide the essential support.