1. Everyday
Neurobiology
Example:
Tithi Roy​

2. 2
Everyday Neurobiology Example: Caffeine's Effects on
Alertness
In my own life, I frequently experience the effects of caffeine consumption on my
alertness and cognitive function. This everyday scenario provides an opportunity to
apply neurobiology concepts.

3. Nervous System Components
Involved:
3
Central Nervous System (CNS): This includes the brain and spinal cord. The brain processes sensory information, controls
cognitive functions, and regulates alertness and arousal.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): This includes sensory and motor neurons. The PNS transmits signals between the
CNS and the rest of the body.
Functions of the Nervous System Apparent:
Arousal and Alertness: The nervous system, particularly the brain, plays a crucial role in regulating alertness. When I
consume caffeine, it acts as a stimulant on my central nervous system, leading to increased alertness.
Cognitive Enhancement: Caffeine affects cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and problem-solving. It
temporarily improves my ability to focus and stay awake, which is a direct function of the nervous system's control over
cognitive processes.
Impairments in the Nervous System:
Dependency and Tolerance: Over time, regular caffeine consumption can lead to tolerance, meaning that the nervous
system becomes less responsive to caffeine's stimulating effects. This can result in reduced alertness when not consuming
caffeine and even withdrawal symptoms.
Sleep Disruption: If I consume caffeine too late in the day, it can interfere with my sleep. This happens because caffeine
remains active in the central nervous system, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

4. How This Course Enhances
Analysis:
4
Studying neurobiology has provided me with a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying everyday
experiences like the effects of caffeine:
Neurotransmitters: I've learned about neurotransmitters like adenosine and dopamine, which play critical roles in
caffeine's impact on the nervous system. Adenosine promotes sleepiness, and caffeine antagonizes its effects by
blocking adenosine receptors, leading to increased alertness.
Neural Pathways: Understanding neural pathways has allowed me to comprehend how caffeine's stimulation can
enhance cognitive functions. It acts on specific areas of the brain involved in attention and wakefulness.
Tolerance and Adaptation: This course has taught me about the nervous system's ability to adapt and develop
tolerance. When I notice that caffeine's effects seem to diminish with regular use, I can attribute this to neural
adaptations.

5. SUMMARY
5
In summary, the everyday scenario of caffeine consumption and its impact on
alertness and cognitive function provides a practical application of neurobiology
concepts related to the nervous system's functions and adaptations. This course
has equipped me with the knowledge and framework to analyze and better
understand these phenomena in my daily life

6. THANK YOU