Neurons are stunningly complex structures that can have hundreds to thousands of input synapses scattered through multiple thousands of dendrites. Electrical and chemical signaling between these synapses propels information flow in the brain. The specialization of neurons for intercellular communication is reflected in their overall morphology, their membrane current, and their synaptic contacts. 

In this online laboratory, students explore how scientists came to understand that adult neurogenesis happens. First, students work through a brief tutorial on the history of neurogenesis research and the methods used by scientists. Next, they are introduced to the experimental design employed to conduct an important experiment in the history of neurogenesis research. After that, they learn how to identify cells undergoing neurogenesis, collect data from real research images, and analyze the data with an online statistical research tool. Finally, students come to conclusions about the research they have conducted, propose an additional research hypothesis about neurogenesis that could be tested by a scientist, and write a brief essay about the societal implications of this research. Along the way, students receive feedback to help them understand and apply neurogenesis research.

The mammalian brain is the most sophisticated computational device known, and the most magnificent structure to evolve on Earth. The rapid, precise, and reliable flow of information within the brain, and communication between the brain and the periphery, depend largely upon neuron-to-neuron or neuron-to-muscle communication. 

While sleep is very often the first thing we sacrifice when trying to get everything done in our lives, research is starting to show us that perhaps it should be one of the last. Scientists have found that sleep is related to grades, obesity, blood alcohol levels, depression, and many other things that can impact your health and your life.