How New Brain Cells Regenerate
Neurogenesis refers to the formation of new neurons in the brain.
Today, research suggests that neurogenesis continues in certain areas of the brain after birth and even into adulthood.
It is only by the formation of these cells that the hippocampus can maintain its central functions.
PASIEKA / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
Research suggests that the number of new cells and the frequency by which they are created declines with age.
Such findings indicate that more research is still needed to understand neurogenesis in adult brains.
This can help them regenerate, a process influenced by the Huntingtin (HTT) gene.
A 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis found that aerobic exercise had no significant effect on total hippocampal volume.
Research suggests that exercise helps protect this critical brain region from age-related deterioration.
On the flip side, there are factors that directly undermine neurogenesis.
Chief among these is age.
Each person is different, so finding what works best for you is important.
2015;13(1):e1002045.
2015;7(7):a018994.
2019;16(5-6):30-37.
Schoenfeld TJ, Cameron HA.Adult neurogenesis and mental illness.Neuropsychopharmacology.
2020;375(1811):20190619. doi:10.1098/rstb.2019.0619
ALS Association.Trophic factors.
