Adult Human Brain Continuously Generates New Neurons into Old Age

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Discovery

Curated by Surfaced Editorial·Neuroscience·2 min read

Researchers at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry discovered that the adult human hippocampus continues to generate new neurons well into the seventh decade of life. They found that individuals up to 79 years old exhibited thousands of immature neurons in the dentate gyrus, with similar numbers and neuronal maturity as younger adults. The team examined post-mortem brain samples from 28 previously healthy individuals, meticulously identifying progenitor cells and new neurons. This finding challenges the long-held belief that adult neurogenesis largely ceases in humans after early adulthood. The breakthrough was published in Cell Stem Cell in 2018.

Why It’s Fascinating

This discovery fundamentally shifts our understanding of brain plasticity, overturning the dogma that adult neurogenesis significantly declines with age and suggesting a lifelong capacity for repair. It suggests the adult brain retains a remarkable capacity for self-repair and learning, offering new hope for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Imagine therapies that could stimulate these existing neural stem cells to regenerate damaged brain regions, potentially improving memory or cognitive function within a decade. It's like finding hidden backup batteries in an old device, capable of extending its life and capabilities. Patients with cognitive decline, and researchers developing new treatments, stand to benefit immensely. Does this mean we can actively boost neurogenesis to prevent age-related cognitive decline?

Read full article at cell.com →

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