Adults grow new brain cells, and these neurons are key to learning by listening

Research has shown that the human brain can form new neurons, even in adulthood. But a lesser-known aspect of this process is what role these newborn cells play in shaping our cognitive abilities.

among scientists.

People with these conditions have fewer brain cells that are supposed to develop after birth than those without these conditions. Nevertheless, it is unclear how this lack of new brain cells affects the thinking difficulties experienced by those with these neurological disorders.

New neurons and learning

The difficulty of spotting and examining new neurons in adult brains, combined with how rare they are, led scientists to question their importance in brain function.

We tested patients with seizures before and after surgery by looking at their brain tissue for signs of new neurons. These patients had given their brain tissue to help us understand how many new brain cells a person has and whether or not it's related to how well they can think and remember.

A child can learn mathematics, or pick up skills through just listening to others, or hear about their experiences, instead of being taught through traditional methods.

We didn't notice a connection between new neurons and spatial learning in humans like we did with the dogs.

Improving cognition

The strain of cognitive decline on global healthcare systems is expected to grow.

Our studies indicate that the connection between newly formed brain cells and language learning could be a crucial building block for creating treatments to improve mental abilities in individuals. energizing the creation of new brain cells may be a promising strategy to promote overall brain health and reverse cognitive decline in older adults and those suffering from epilepsy or dementia. However, these ideas are still conceptual and any resultant treatments are still in development.

Our research highlights the significance of studying how new neurons work in humans, particularly, as it contrasts with how they operate in mice. This understanding is essential to ensure that findings from animal-based research, such as studies with mice, can be effectively applied to human patients.

We're conducting a clinical trial to see how aerobic exercise can improve new neuron production and cognitive function in people with epilepsy. We've already started the trial, and we're currently in its first phase, which focuses on making sure the study is safe for participants. Two patients have already finished the study without any issues. Now, we're looking to recruit eight more patients to exercise and complete this phase of the trial.

By combining scientific experiments in a laboratory and medical trials with real people, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how the brain can heal itself and maintain optimal health from birth to old age.

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