Psychology 304: Brain and Behaviour Lecture 22

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Psychology 304 Brain and BehaviourLecture 22
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Neurodevelopmental Disorders
1. What neurodevelopmental disorders have been
identified?
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By the end of todays class, you should be able
to
1. discuss the causes, neurological correlates,
and symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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What neurodevelopmental disorders have been
identified?
1. Anencephaly

• Occurs when the anterior neural tube does not
  close, resulting in incomplete brain
  development. Caused by genetic abnormalities,
  folic acid deficiencies, and/or exposure to
  neurotoxins.

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Anencephaly Incomplete Brain Development
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Anencephaly Incomplete Brain Development
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2. Spina bifida

• Occurs when the posterior neural tube does not
  close, resulting in spinal cord defects and limb
  paralysis. Caused by genetic abnormalities,
  folic acid deficiencies, and/or exposure to
  neurotoxins.

• Four forms identified occulta, meningocele,
  meningomyelocele (cystica) and myeloschisis.

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Spinal cord (yellow)
Spina Bifida Four Forms
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3. Down syndrome (trisomy 21)

• Occurs when an extra copy of chromosome 21 is
  produced. Caused by errors in cell division.

• Associated with abnormal brain development
  Abnormal dendrites, simpler and smaller gyri and
  sulci, smaller frontal lobes, lighter brain.
  After age 30, brain degeneration typically
  occurs.

• Accompanied by mental retardation,
  abnormalities in internal organs, and altered
  facial and body features.

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Down Syndrome Physical Characteristics
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Down Syndrome Physical Characteristics
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Down Syndrome Controversial Craniofacial Surgery
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Neurodevelopmental Disorders
1. What neurodevelopmental disorders have been
identified?