Neurogenesis is an important part of how our brains change and adapt. It helps create and strengthen connections between brain cells.
So, what is neurogenesis? It’s the process of making new brain cells, mainly in a place called the hippocampus. This area is really important for learning and remembering things.
Research shows that in healthy adults, about 700 new neurons are created each day! This process can be affected by different things, like being in a stimulating environment or getting regular exercise.
The new neurons can join in with the existing brain circuits, making them stronger. Studies have found that when neurogenesis increases, it can boost how well we think and remember. For example, mice that had more neurogenesis did about 30% better when it came to remembering things compared to those that didn’t.
Neurogenesis is also important when the brain faces injuries or stress. It helps replace lost neurons and support recovery.
Neurogenesis works together with other types of brain changes, like synaptic plasticity, which also play a role in how our brains adapt. However, as we get older, the rate of neurogenesis can drop. It's been found that this rate can decrease by about 50% from when we are young to when we are older. This drop may connect to how our thinking abilities can decline as we age.
Neurogenesis is an important part of how our brains change and adapt. It helps create and strengthen connections between brain cells.
So, what is neurogenesis? It’s the process of making new brain cells, mainly in a place called the hippocampus. This area is really important for learning and remembering things.
Research shows that in healthy adults, about 700 new neurons are created each day! This process can be affected by different things, like being in a stimulating environment or getting regular exercise.
The new neurons can join in with the existing brain circuits, making them stronger. Studies have found that when neurogenesis increases, it can boost how well we think and remember. For example, mice that had more neurogenesis did about 30% better when it came to remembering things compared to those that didn’t.
Neurogenesis is also important when the brain faces injuries or stress. It helps replace lost neurons and support recovery.
Neurogenesis works together with other types of brain changes, like synaptic plasticity, which also play a role in how our brains adapt. However, as we get older, the rate of neurogenesis can drop. It's been found that this rate can decrease by about 50% from when we are young to when we are older. This drop may connect to how our thinking abilities can decline as we age.