Development of the brain and the emergence of the mind constitute some of the most important concerns of contemporary biology. Disturbances during fetal life may have profound implications for a child's future neurological and psychological development, which can in turn impact society. The new edition of this highly respected work presents a comprehensive review of the basic mechanisms of brain development and the pathophysiology of disorders of the infant brain, written by a team of distinguished neuroscientists, neonatologists, and neuropediatricians. The book follows the main milestones of brain development, from formation of the neural tube and wiring of the neurons in the brain. Neurotrophic factors, neurotransmitters, glial cell biology, cerebral circulation development of sensory functions are all described in detail. Furthermore, there are more philosophical chapters on the evolution of the brain and the emergence of consciousness. Clinical considerations are highlighted where relevant.

‘… wonderful book … The editors smoothly transition from the bench to the bedside by examining techniques the clinician can use to evaluate the state of brain development and injury … At a time when there is rapidly improving understanding of brain development and neonatal brain injury, this book should be of interest to scientists and clinicians alike.’

Source: Pediatrics Adolescent Medicine

‘Because of the quality and breath of materials, it remains that this book will prove relevant and useful to the broad readership of this journal. Readers may wish a copy for their own bookshelf, but they should at least request that one is stored by their institution’s library.’

Source: Psychological Medicine

‘The book is elegantly written and well referenced … As a comprehensive review of the most recent research results on brain development and its clinical application, this book is strongly recommended …’

Source: European Journal of Paediatric Neurology

'… a fantastically rich collection of studies and essays … comprehensive and accessible … a fascinating text and an extremely useful resource …'

Source: The Psychologist

'… unique … combines neuroscience and developmental biology with clinical aspects of fetal-neonatal brain development … the second edition adds some new chapters and information.'

Source: Doody's Notes