neuroutvecklingssjukdomar
Neurodevelopment, sometimes referred to in Swedish as neuroutveckling, is the biological process by which the nervous system grows and matures. It encompasses the formation of the brain and spinal cord, as well as the development of peripheral nerves and neural circuits. The process begins in embryonic life and continues into adolescence.
Key processes include neurogenesis, neuronal migration, differentiation, axon and dendrite growth, synaptogenesis, myelination, and synaptic pruning.
Stages: prenatal development such as neurulation and neural tube closure; birth to early childhood: rapid synaptogenesis
Influencing factors: genetics provide the blueprint; epigenetic regulation; environment; nutrition (e.g., essential fatty acids, iron, folate);
Disorders: neurodevelopmental disorders include autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, communication disorders, specific learning disorders; also
Interventions emphasize early detection, behavioral therapies, educational supports, and sometimes pharmacotherapy; early intervention improves outcomes.
Assessment: longitudinal studies, neuroimaging (MRI), electrophysiological methods, standardized developmental assessments.
Research: aims to identify critical periods and mechanisms to support healthy development and to mitigate risk