NEUROPILE Meaning and
Definition
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Neuropile is a term commonly used in neuroscience and neuroanatomy to describe the network of neuronal processes or fibers that form a complex, interconnected matrix within the nervous system. It refers to the intricate web of axons, dendrites, and synaptic connections found in regions of the brain, spinal cord, and other ganglia.
In the central nervous system (CNS), the neuropile is primarily composed of densely packed axons and dendrites, which are the long, thread-like extensions of neurons that transmit electrical impulses and communicate information between cells. These processes often form dense bundles or tracts, while also branching and interweaving extensively, creating a highly intricate and organized structure.
The neuropile serves as a critical substrate for the integration and processing of neural signals within the CNS. It provides a vast surface area for synapses to form, facilitating the transmission of electrical impulses and the transformation of incoming sensory information. Additionally, the interconnected nature of the neuropile allows for complex patterns of connectivity, enabling the integration of multiple sensory inputs and the generation of sophisticated behavioral responses.
The structural organization and complexity of the neuropile differ across different regions of the nervous system and various species. However, its fundamental role in facilitating communication and information processing remains consistent. Due to its essential role and its involvement in various neurological diseases and disorders, understanding the properties and functions of neuropile is of great interest to neuroscientists and researchers.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NEUROPILE
Etymology of NEUROPILE
The word "neuropile" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "neuron" meaning "nerve" and "pile" meaning "mass" or "pile". In neuroscience, "neuropile" refers to the tangled mass of nerve fibers and their processes, including dendrites and axons, that form the interconnected network within the central nervous system. The term was coined in the late 19th century by German anatomist Friedrich Merkel.
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