The term neurobiological refers to the study of the biological mechanisms underlying the function and behavior of the nervous system, particularly the brain. It encompasses how neurons, neurotransmitters, hormones, and brain structures, along with their functions, interact to regulate cognitive, emotional, and physiological processes. In the context of eating behavior, neurobiological mechanisms explain how the brain controls hunger, satiety, cravings, and reward responses through neural circuits and chemical signaling. This field integrates insights from neuroscience, biology, and psychology to understand how biological factors shape behavior.

Neurobiological mechanisms are the fundamental processes within the nervous system, including neurons, neurotransmitters, and molecular pathways, that underlie various physiological and psychological functions. They serve as the basis for understanding how the nervous system operates.

Neurobiology is the study of the structure, function, and mechanisms of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It seeks to understand the nervous system’s role in various physiological and psychological processes.

A neurocognitive disorder is defined as an acquired decline in cognitive functions caused primarily by a medical disease such as Alzheimer’s or cerebrovascular disease rather than a psychiatric cause (Sachdev et al., 2014).

Neurocognitive functions are the cognitive processes associated with specific pathways or systems in the brain.

Neurodegenerative disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder characterized by nerve cell loss, which causes severe cognitive decline impacting memory, reasoning, emotions, and motor skills (Tsuiji & Yamanaka, 2014).

We will use this term to refer to the brain’s development of neurological pathways that influence cognitive performance or functioning.

Neuroendocrine refers to the intricate interplay between the nervous system and the endocrine system in regulating physiological processes within the body. The term combines “neuro”,” which relates to the nervous system, and “endocrine”,” which pertains to the endocrine system responsible for hormone production and secretion.

Neuroendocrine cells are specialized cells that share features of both nerve cells (neurons) and hormone-secreting endocrine cells. They receive signals in the form of neurotransmitters from neurons and, in response, release hormone-like substances directly into the bloodstream. This unique function allows neuroendocrine cells to act as intermediaries between the nervous and endocrine systems, playing an essential role in regulating various physiological processes.

The neuroendocrine system is a complex regulatory system that connects the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to the brain. It comprises neurons, neurochemicals, and several internal hormone-producing glands and tissues that allow the body to respond to, adapt to, and maintain homeostasis (Epelbaum & Terrien, 2020). This course will explore the HPA axis as a significant neuroendocrine system that plays a crucial role within the MGBA.