neurodevelopment

noun

neu·​ro·​de·​vel·​op·​ment ˌnu̇r-ō-di-ˈve-ləp-mənt 

ˌnyu̇r-

: the development of the nervous system : the formation of neuronal pathways and synaptic connections that are responsible for brain development and function

Studies have linked higher screen time in infancy to suboptimal neurodevelopment in children, including an increased risk of delayed language development, emotional problems, and poorer academic performance through preschool ages and childhood.

—Stephanie Weaver

"When we look at the genes involved in the differentiation of dog lineages, a lot of the action is in genes related to neurodevelopment, suggesting that selection for cognitive and behavioral features has probably been very important," Dr. [Evan] MacLean said.

—The New York Times

neurodevelopmental

ˌnu̇r-ō-di-ˌve-ləp-ˈmen-tᵊl 

ˌnyu̇r-

adjective

neurodevelopmental disorders

Examples of neurodevelopment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But our findings reaffirm the growing body of evidence that the early gut microbiome plays a key role in shaping neurodevelopment. —Angelica P. Ahrens, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2024

Some research has found that the metabolites produced by a mother’s gut bacteria can affect the neurodevelopment of the fetus. —Markham Heid, TIME, 26 July 2024

These encounters equipped Neanderthals with genes that in living people influence the uptake of neurotransmitters and their metabolism, intellectual disabilities, and neurodevelopment, such as a gene linked to autism. —science.org, 13 July 2024

Little was known about the gene, except that it was involved in neurodevelopment. —Jason Mast, STAT, 13 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + development

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

neurodevelopment

noun

neu·​ro·​de·​vel·​op·​ment -di-ˈvel-əp-mənt 

: the development of the nervous system : the formation of neuronal pathways and synaptic connections that are responsible for brain development and function

Beginning in the third week of gestation, neurodevelopment continues until at least the third decade of life.

—Valerie J. Sydnor et al., Neuron

Retinoic acid, a vitamin A derivate, has been shown to affect different molecular signaling pathways in the developing brain by regulating expression of several genes and promoting cell differentiation, making it important for the regulation of neurodevelopment.

—Tania Anjos et al., European Journal of Nutrition

neurodevelopmental

-ˌvel-əp-ˈment-ᵊl 

adjective

A major issue confronting clinicians who work with preterm infants and their families is the identification of infants who are most at risk for subsequent neurodevelopmental disability and who may benefit from early intervention services.

—Lianne J. Woodward et al., The New England Journal of Medicine