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- Glossary
Homunculus
In the brain, every part of the body is represented in precisely defined locations, both sensorily and motorically. Body parts with a high density of sensory receptors (fingertips, tongue) are represented more prominently than those with a lower receptor density (back, legs). Neural maps are developed, e.g., of the hand or face. If these maps are graphically assigned to their body parts, the result is a homunculus, i.e., a small human being. The size of its respective body parts reflects their motor capabilities or sensitivity. This makes the homunculus appear strangely distorted.
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- Glossary
Second messenger
A second messenger is a chemical substance that transmits a signal within the cell after a receptor on the cell membrane has been activated. It is formed or released intracellularly and mediates the effect of the original signal on various target structures in the cell, often amplifying the signal.
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- Glossary
Synaptic depression
Weakening of signal transmission at a synapse due to reduced neurotransmitter release or decreased receptor sensitivity; occurs, for example, with repeated stimulation (habituation).
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- Discover
- Milestones
Hubel and Wiesel: Cutting the Lawn with Nail Scissors
Hubel and Wiesel worked diligently to establish fundamental knowledge about visual information processing.
26.09.2012
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- Grundlagen
- Communication in the Brain
Nerve Cells in Conversation
No chaos despite sensory overload – neurons communicate silently, efficiently, and at breakneck speed.
16.04.2012
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Mediathek: Grafik & Foto
10.03.2017
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- Percipience
- Smell & Taste
Neurogastronomy – the New Science of Taste
Neurogastronomy explores how the brain makes humans gourmets.
02.09.2025
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- Grundlagen
- Anatomy
The Parietal Lobe
Sensory impressions are integrated in the parietal lobe. This is also where the body and mind meet.
18.09.2025
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Aktuell
20.03.2017
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24.02.2017
