Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Molecular Neuroscience

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Molecular Neuroscience 1. Gene vs. Allele The terms 'gene' and 'allele' are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. A gene is a segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein or RNA molecule. On the other hand, an allele is a variant form of a gene. In simpler terms, a gene is like a recipe, while an allele is a specific version of that recipe. Understanding this difference is crucial when studying genetic variations and their implications. 2. Synapse vs. Neuron While 'synapse' and 'neuron' are related to each other, they refer to different entities. A neuron is a specialized cell that transmits electrical signals in the nervous system. On the other hand, a synapse is the junction between two neurons, where the transmission of signals occurs. Think of a neuron as a messenger, and a synapse as the meeting point where the message is relayed. This differentiation is vital when studying neural circuits and communication. 3. Mutation vs. Polymorphism