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Chapter 13: Problem 2

What adaptive advantage do synapses provide in nervous systems (i.e., why isn't the nervous system just a mesh of cells cytoplasmically connected through gap junctions)?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Synapses in the nervous system provide the advantage of directional information flow, computation efficiency, the capacity for modulated signal strength, and plasticity. A simple mesh of cells interconnected through gap junctions would not possess these characteristics, thus limiting its complexity and adaptability.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Synapses

Synapses are the gaps between neurons, or nerve cells. They allow the transmission of signals from one neuron to another. A synapse allows a neuron to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron.
02

The Role of Synapses in the Nervous System

Synapses play a key role in the nervous system as they allow neurons to form circuits within the nervous system, providing the ability to process information, react to it, and store it as memory.
03

Why Synapses are Advantageous

The significant advantage of having synapses is that they allow for directional information flow, which improves computation efficiency and complexity. They also let the nervous system modulate signal strength and have plasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory.
04

Complications of a Simple Network via Gap Junctions

A network of cells connected through gap junctions would mean unrestricted flow of information. This would significantly limit the complexity and adaptability of responses. The network would lack the ability to modulate signal strength and to update connections, which are necessary for learning and memory.

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