ACT Science - Neurology and Blood Biochemistry

Here you will learn some English words related to neurology and blood biochemistry, like "leptin", "ghrelin", "synapse", etc. that will help you ace your ACTs.

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ACT Science

the process by which new neurons are generated in the brain, occurring primarily during prenatal development but also continuing into adulthood in certain brain regions

Ex: Stress and aging can negatively impact neurogenesis in the brain .

a neurological phenomenon where stimulation of one sensory or cognitive pathway leads to automatic, involuntary experiences in a second sensory or cognitive pathway

Ex: The artist 's synesthesia influenced the vibrant colors and textures in her paintings .

a physical perception caused by an outside stimulus or something being in touch with the body

Ex: The sensation of the warm sun on her face was comforting .
neuron [noun]

a cell that is responsible for transmitting nerve impulses between the brain and the rest of the body

Ex: A single neuron can connect to thousands of other nerve cells .

the tissue in the central nervous system composed of myelinated nerve fibers

the outer layer of neural tissue in the parietal lobe involved in sensory processing and spatial awareness

the temporary storage of information that is currently being used or actively processed by the brain, typically for a few seconds to a few minutes

Ex: Studying in short bursts can help improve retention in short-term memory .

a chemical substance that transmits messages from a neuron to another one or to a muscle

Ex: Endorphins act as neurotransmitters that relieve pain and induce pleasure .

a curved structure in the brain responsible for memory formation, learning, and spatial navigationa curved structure in the brain responsible for memory formation, learning, and spatial navigation

a scientist who studies the structure, function, and disorders of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord

Ex: She became a neuroscientist to better understand the mechanisms of neuroplasticity .
synapse [noun]

a junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter

Ex: Chemical synapses are the most common type of synapse , involving the release of neurotransmitters to transmit signals .

a comprehensive map or diagram that depicts the complete set of neural connections within a nervous system

parasympathetic [adjective]

relating to the part of the nervous system that promotes relaxation and digestion in the body

Ex:
neurosis [noun]

a mental condition that is not caused by organic disease in which one is constantly anxious, worried, and stressed

Ex: Cognitive-behavioral therapy ( CBT ) is a common treatment for neurosis , helping individuals reframe negative thought patterns and reduce anxiety .
autonomic [adjective]

relating to bodily functions that occur automatically, without conscious effort or control

Ex: The autonomic reflexes help maintain internal balance without conscious effort .

the branch of medicine and physiology dealing with the endocrine system that controls the hormones in one's body

Ex: The endocrinology clinic specializes in managing conditions such as hypothyroidism , adrenal insufficiency , and polycystic ovary syndrome .

a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles and promotes restful sleep

ghrelin [noun]

a hormone produced mainly by the stomach that stimulates appetite and regulates hunger

Ex:
leptin [noun]

a hormone produced primarily by fat cells that helps regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger and promoting feelings of fullness

estrogen [noun]

a hormone primarily responsible for female reproductive development and regulation

a neurotransmitter primarily found in the brain and gastrointestinal tract that plays a key role in mood regulation, appetite, sleep, and various physiological functions

Ex:

a hormone and neurotransmitter that regulates the body's stress response

a compound released by cells in response to injury, allergy, or immune reactions, causing inflammation, itching, and other allergy symptoms

Ex:

a biochemical assembly that transports fats in the bloodstream, composed of proteins and lipids

Ex: Lipoproteins play a crucial role in lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health .

a biological indicator found in blood that can be measured and evaluated to indicate a particular physiological or pathological condition, or the response to treatment

any organic compound that creates the basic structure of proteins

acidosis [noun]

a medical condition characterized by an excess of acid in the blood and body tissues, resulting in a lower pH than normal

Ex: Acidosis disrupts normal physiological processes and can lead to organ dysfunction .

a medical condition characterized by an excess of base or alkali in the blood and body tissues, resulting in a higher pH than normal

Ex: Alkalosis can cause symptoms such as muscle twitching , confusion , and tingling sensations .
inhibitory [adjective]

having the ability to restrain, limit, or suppress activity or function

Ex: Inhibitory neurons play a crucial role in controlling the timing and intensity of signals in neural circuits .

a protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells

Ex: Healthy diets support hemoglobin production .
cytokine [noun]

a small protein that regulates immune responses and cell communication in the human body