Growth and development are essential aspects of neuroscience that encompass those processes by which the brain and nervous system evolve and mature. From early embryonic stages to adulthood, growth and development play crucial roles in shaping the structure and function of the brain, influencing neural connectivity, plasticity, and cognition. Neuronal growth and development begin during embryonic stages when neural progenitor cells divide and differentiate to form the early brain structures. Neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, is particularly active during prenatal and early postnatal periods in man, laying the foundation for the development of neural circuits in the brain. As the brain continues to develop, synaptogenesis, the formation of synapses between neurons, occurs rapidly. The establishment of neural circuits and connections between different brain regions is thought to be critical for information processing, learning, and memory. Experience-dependent plasticity during development also allows the brain to fine-tune and refine these connections in response to environmental stimuli. During specific developmental windows, known as critical periods, the brain is particularly sensitive to external influences. Environmental experiences and sensory input during these periods have a profound impact on shaping developing neural circuits and determining functional specialization in various brain regions. Disruptions during such critical periods can therefore lead to permanent changes in brain structure and function. Myelination, the process by which myelin sheaths form around neuronal axons during development, enhances neural transmission speed and efficiency. This maturation of white matter tracts supports the rapid development of cognitive and motor skills during childhood and adolescence. Growth and development are influenced by various hormones, such as growth hormone, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones which play important roles in brain growth, synaptogenesis, and neuronal maturation. For example, thyroid hormones are transported across the placenta from the mother to the foetus, and any disruptions in the maternal supply of thyroid hormones can have adverse effects on the developing foetal brain. Maternal thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) or hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone levels), can therefore impact foetal brain development. Growth and development are intimately linked to neural plasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt in response to experiences. The developing brain exhibits a high degree of plasticity, enabling it to learn and adapt rapidly. Periods of rapid brain growth, such as during infancy and adolescence, coincide with specific developmental milestones and sensitive periods for learning and cognition. These growth spurts are associated with increased synaptic density and neural connectivity. Finally, understanding the roles of growth and development is crucial for studying and addressing developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities. Dysregulation during critical periods can contribute to atypical brain development and function. Growth and development also influences the aging brain and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Studying the impact of early-life experiences on brain health can provide insights into the risk factors for age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. We offer a large product catalogue of research reagents for investigating growth and development, including p75 NGF Receptor antibodies, Nkx2.2 antibodies, CXCR4 antibodies, BDNF ELISA Kits, and CNTF ELISA Kits. Explore our full growth and development product range below and discover more, for less. Alternatively, you can explore our Axonal Guidance Proteins and Neurotrophins product ranges.