Glossary M-P

Major Gene:

A gene that is necessary and sufficient by itself to cause a condition.

Neurofibril:

Any of the long, thin, microscopic fibrils that run through the body of a neuron and extend into the axon and dendrites, giving the neuron support and shape.

Neurofilament:

Any of the long fine threads that make up a neurofibril.

Neurological:

Having to do with the nerves or nervous system.

Neurone:

The basic cellular unit of nervous tissue.  Each neurone is composed of a body, an axon and dendrites.  The function of a neurone is to act as a messanger for communication from the body to the brain and back to the body.

Neurofibril:

Any of the long, thin, microscopic fibrils that run through the body of a neuron and extend into the axon and dendrites, giving the neuron support and shape.

Neurotransmitter:

Any of the various chemical substances, such as acetylcholine, that transmit nerve impulses across a synapse.

Neurotrophic factors:

A family of protein which induce the survival of neurones.

NIPPV (Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation):

Can be used to alleviate symptoms of breathlessness when the respiratory muscles become weak.  Works through a mask by providing extra air when you breathe in.  Most people who use this equipment do so at night because breathing is shallower when you are asleep

Protein:

Fundamental components of all living cells and include many substances, such as enzymes, hormones and antibodies, that are necessary for the proper functioning of an organism.  They are compounds containing an amino acid sequence of more than 100 amino acids, at least two of which are different, bound mostly through normal peptide links.

Peptides:

Compounds containing a sequence of 4-100 amino acid units, which are bound through at least one normal peptide link.