Scientists study the brain to understand which regions control which functions. Describe the difficulties involved in studying the brain and explain why research into brain function is important for treating diseases in the ageing population.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (5 marks)
The brain contains billions of neurons, making it extremely complex to study.
The brain must still be functioning – the patient must be alive – to observe neuronal activity.
Ethical issues arise; patients with brain damage may be unable to give informed consent.
In ageing diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, neurons in the cerebral cortex die, reducing function.
Knowing which brain regions control which functions enables identification of disease causes and development of cures.
The brain must still be functioning – the patient must be alive – to observe neuronal activity.
Ethical issues arise; patients with brain damage may be unable to give informed consent.
In ageing diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, neurons in the cerebral cortex die, reducing function.
Knowing which brain regions control which functions enables identification of disease causes and development of cures.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact terms ‘neurons’, ‘cerebral cortex’, ‘Alzheimer’s’, ‘Parkinson’s’
- Show the link between complexity, ethical issues and the need for live patients
- Explain how mapping functions helps target treatments
Common mistakes
- Confusing ‘neurons’ with ‘neurotransmitters’
- Omitting the requirement that the brain must be alive
- Failing to mention the cerebral cortex or specific diseases
Mark scheme (5 marks)
- There are billions of neurones (in the brain), making it very complex to study
- The brain must still be working / the patient must be alive to study the function of neurones
- There are ethical issues / patients with brain damage may not be able to give informed consent
- In diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, nerve cells in the cerebral cortex begin to die, leading to a decrease in functionality
- Knowledge of which brain regions control which functions would allow the cause of these diseases to be identified and a cure to be developed
Related
- All Eduqas A-Level Biology revision notes →
- How to answer a "Describe and Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
More Application of reproduction and genetics questions
- Insulin and glucagon work together to maintain a stable blood glucose concentrat…
- Describe the pathway of a reflex arc when a person steps on a sharp object. Incl…
- Adrenaline is a hormone released during the 'fight-or-flight' response. Explain …
- Explain how a nerve impulse passes from one neurone to the next across a synapse…