Molecular aspects of neurobiology

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The past two decades may be regarded as a golden era for neurobiology, a field that once seemed too complex for investigation with the low-resolution techniques available in the early part of the century. However, it flourished in the latter half, becoming one of biology's most promising areas due to simultaneous discoveries across various neurobiological research domains. Key advancements include the identification of numerous neurotransmitters, from monoamines to peptides, and the elucidation of mechanisms through which different agents bind to specific receptors. It is now understood that neurotransmitters often exert their effects via second messengers, and that the growth and differentiation of nerve cells rely on activation by specific protein molecules, notably nerve growth factor (NGF), which was the first to be discovered and extensively studied. The advent of sophisticated techniques, such as recombinant DNA and monoclonal antibodies, has enabled detailed investigations at cellular and subcellular levels, focusing on nerve cells and their interactions. Collaborative studies worldwide have unveiled the immense complexity of the central nervous system, enhancing our understanding from individual neurons to the entire organism.