A memory update for our biological computer
A glimpse into the future of our brain health
Being the control centre of our existence and countless bodily functions, our brain is attracting ever more attention in the fields of research and science – driven by the aim of maintaining a high quality of life in a population that is living longer and longer. One of more ubiquitous trends of our modern world is a desire to remain “forever young”, whether this is accomplished through the use of social media filters or anti-aging products. Yet it’s all too often forgotten that youthfulness is not only about what’s on the outside, but also (and arguably more so) what’s on the inside. Specifically, it all comes down to our brain: The passage of time has just as much an effect on the internal processes and cells of our thinking organ as it does on our external appearance. In this context, one of the most fascinating discoveries of late has been neurogenesis – a veritable “memory update” for our biological computer that holds promise for groundbreaking developments in the medical field.
The brain under the microscope: Neurogenesis in focus
“Neurogenesis” refers to the formation of nerve cells from special stem cells or precursor cells. This continuous formation of new nerve cells allows our brain to adapt to new challenges, form memories and process information. Without neurogenesis, our cognitive performance would be severely limited, since the formation of new neurons is essential for the function and maintenance of our nervous system.
Previously, it was believed to be the case that all of the neurons in our central nervous system are formed during embryonic and early postnatal development. However, recent findings have shifted this paradigm, showing that continuous neurogenesis occurs in the adult stage of our lives as well. This process can be thought of like a regular rejuvenation treatment for our brain – one that proves we are still capable of learning and adapting even as we transition into old age.
Does mean our brain can stay forever young?
Unfortunately not – but it can still remain efficient for a very long time. To illustrate the importance of adult neurogenesis, it’s best to use the analogy of viewing the brain like a muscle: Just as a muscle is strengthened through regular exercise, so too the brain can be improved through the continuous formation of new neurons. Especially in the hippocampus – an area of the brain that is also crucial for learning and memory processes – this neurogenic activity offers hope for the long-term preservation of our cognitive functions in old age.
New approaches to combat Alzheimer’s and dementia
One particularly promising area of research in this context is the connection between neurogenesis and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Researchers are currently working hard to investigate whether increased neurogenesis could help to alleviate or even prevent the symptoms of these diseases. Although this research is still in its infancy, the approaches involved nevertheless hold promise of effective treatment options.
Furthermore, the notion that our brain is capable of regenerating and adapting well into our old age paves the way for innovative therapies. From transcranial pulse stimulation through to pharmacological approaches, the search for new methods to promote neurogenesis in a targeted manner has the potential to transform our understanding of what’s possible in the field of neurology.
A promising journey through our body awaits
Under the slogan “Chemistry Inside”, we’ll be quite literally putting ourselves under the microscope this year as we take a closer look at the world of chemistry and biology inside the human body. We have a number of exciting facts, materials and processes to come throughout the rest of the year that are sure to intrigue, excite and even surprise you. So stay tuned to find out more!
Sources:
https://www.dasgehirn.info/grundlagen/struktur-und-funktion/das-nervensystem-reparieren
https://www.tps-therapie.de/tps-regeneration/neurogenese
https://flexikon.doccheck.com/de/Neurogenese
https://flexikon.doccheck.com/de/Neuroregeneration
