Animal Physiology

a short synopsis on the overarching topic that unites the succeeding chapters. Each chapter in the textbook has been revamped to include upto-date information specific to that sub-field of neuroscience. For example, the section on synaptic plasticity discusses recent research from the Yasuda lab on CA2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase activity in the dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus during long-term potentiation, which adds to the disciplines understanding of synapse-specificity of synaptic plasticity (p. 174). Although liberal in text throughout the book, a plethora of figures, including the Survey of Human Anatomy located in the appendix, orchestrates study for the more visually adept learners. In addition, the fifth edition includes the Sylvius interactive atlas and visual glossary of human neuroanatomy. Sylvius was an excellent supplemental tool to previous editions of Neuroscience and is still offered in the fifth edition. It allows for a more in-depth analysis of structure and function of the human central nervous system via quality images that are neuroanatomically accurate and descriptive. These features combine to make an excellent textbook for not only aspiring undergraduates but also medical and professional students further along in their studies. Neuroscience is a textbook best suited for the inquisitive student but can also serve as a refresher for professors and a reference for graduate and professional students. It is worth the investment to purchase a copy for personal reference or for the classroom, as it is one of the predominant textbooks used for the study and teaching of neuroscience.