title: Fundamental aspects of the developing brain: synapse formation.
abstract: The phenomena presiding over synaptogenesis in the developing brain, notably death of neurons and the nerve growth factor are described as well as the neurobiological and ultrastructural features of synapse maturation. Synapse and connection specificity in the brain versus plasticity are given consideration. Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy is suggested as a possible example of defective synaptogenesis.
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000166:cytology*; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D006801:Humans; D009410:Nerve Degeneration; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors / Q000502:physiology; D009474:Neurons / Q000166:cytology; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism; D013569:Synapses / Q000648:ultrastructure*
chemical_list: D009414:Nerve Growth Factors; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents