Biochemical Correlates of Brain Structure and Function

Biochemical Correlates of Brain Structure and Function deals with the biochemical correlates of brain structure and function, providing some examples of contemporary work interrelating structure with function of the nervous system. The developing brain provides a system for this kind of study, but broad correlates are also drawn between changing biochemistry and increasing physiological activity. This book is organized into nine chapters and begins with an overview of biochemical, morphological, and functional changes in the developing brain, as well as the underlying molecular basis of nerve differentiation and growth of the developing brain. An account of the concept of the cell cycle and its control is also given. The reader is methodically introduced to the properties of the developing retina and its functional biochemistry, with specific reference to the cyclic nucleotides; the use of selective lesioning to delineate GABA-ergic and cholinergic tracts as well as the catecholamine pathways; and cerebral blood flow alteration in concert with mental activity. The remaining chapters explore regions of the brain with altered glucose utilization in response to changes in local functional activity; the physiologically important factors regulating the supply of oxygen and glucose and the relation of metabolic rate to the metabolic state of the brain; and varying aspects of behavioral neurochemistry. This book is intended for chemists and biologists as well as students of biochemistry.