Monday 16 September 2013

Memory : Neurogenesis

Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons are created in the brain. A common myth is that adults are losing some number of neurons every second and that there is nothing we can do about it because the brain cannot create new neurons. While it's true that most neurogenesis happens in childhood and adolescence, adults do continue to make new neurons throughout life.



Much of this adult neurogenesis occurs in the hippocampus which is the key area for learning and memory. Because of this, the hippocampus experiences very little age related shrinkage as compared to other parts of brain.



It's useful to note that stress can inhibit neurogenesis and physical exercise can improve the brain's ability to create new neurons.

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