Chapter 1.5

Question 1

Histology

Answer 1

The study of tissue structure

Question 2

Nissl stain

Answer 2

A tissue stain that outlines all cell bodies because the dyes are attracted to RNA, which encircles the nucleus

Question 3

Golgi stain

Answer 3

A tissue stain that completely fills a small proportion of neurons with a dark, silver-based precipitate

Question 4

Autoradiography

Answer 4

A staining technique that shows the distribution of radioactive chemicals in tissues

Question 5

Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Answer 5

A histological technique in which labeled antibodies are used to visualize specific proteins within tissues

Question 6

In situ hybridization

Answer 6

A method for detecting particular RNA transcripts in tissues sections by providing a nucleotide probe that is complementary to, and will therefore hybridize with, the transcript of interest

Question 7

Computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans)

Answer 7

A noninvasive technique for examining brain structure through computer analysis of X-ray absorption at several positions around the head

Question 8

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Answer 8

A noninvasive brain-imaging technology that uses magnetism and radio-frequency energy to create images of the gross structure of the living brain

Question 9

Functional MRI (fMRI)

Answer 9

Magnetic resonance imaging that detects changes in blood flow and therefore identifies regions of the brain that are particularly active during a given task

Question 10

Positron emission tomography (PET)

Answer 10

A brain-imaging technique that tracks the metabolism of injected radioactive substances in the brain, in order to map brain activity

Question 11

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Answer 11

A noninvasive technique for examining brain function that applies strong magnetic fields to stimulate cortical neurons in order to identify discrete areas of the brain that are particularly active during specific behaviors

Question 12

Magnetoencephalography (MEG)

Answer 12

A noninvasive brain-imaging technology that creates maps of brain activity during cognitive tasks by measuring tiny magnetic fields produced by active neurons

Question 13

Methods used to manipulate brain activity

Answer 13

Stereotaxic surgery
Neural lesions
Electrode implantation
Micro-infusions
Optogenetics
DREADDS

Question 14

Stereotaxic surgery

Answer 14

Device used during surgery for precise placement of an electrode, a small injection needle (cannula) for targeting electrical current or a chemical solution into a specific region of the brain

Question 15

Optogenetics

Answer 15

A method of manipulating brain activity, where opsin genes are inserted into a particular type of neuron. Scientists can then use light to hyperpolarize or depolarize cells. Returns superior temporal resolution
Channelrhodopsins: Excite neurons
Halorhodopsins: Inhibit neurons

Question 16

Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDS)

Answer 16

Engineered G protein-coupled receptors that are designed to be activated by a drug CNO. Returns superior spatial resolution