Brain Cells: For many decades, there has been a debate in the world of neuroscience whether new neurons (brain cells) are formed in the minds of humans. Now a new and detailed research has unveiled this mystery and has clearly indicated that the human brain creates new neurons even after aging. According to the researcher at the Stockholm-based Karolinska Institute and the co-writer of the study, “Our research has ended the long-running debate whether adults can become new neurons in the human brain.” He said that this process is in a part of the brain in a part of the hipocampus which is associated with learning, memory and emotions.
Concrete evidence found with new techniques
Researchers used modern techniques such as single-nucleus RNA sequencing and machine learning to deeply analyze the brain tissue samples obtained from biobals around the world. RNA shows which genes are active in which cell while machine learning helps to understand large data sets.
The process of becoming a neuron in rats and monkeys was already known but it was difficult to find evidence in the human brain, as the tissues obtained after the post -mortem may deteriorate quickly or they may suffer losses in processing. But new technologies crossed this obstacle.
New neurons seen from children to the elderly
Researchers analyzed more than 4 lakh cells from the brain tissue of 24 people, including people between the ages of 0 to 78. In addition, research was done with other techniques on 10 and brains. These include clear indications of children, adolescents and adults to become neurons. The most shocking thing is that many adult brains also showed such cells which can turn into a neuron later.
The team identified the cells that have the ability to convert into new neurons with the help of Florescent Tags. Based on this, a machine learning model was prepared so that it can be understood which cells are turning into brain cells.
New cells not seen in every adult mind
However, there were not indications of neuron formation in all adult brains. One of the 14 adults touched by one technique had evidence of neurogenesis in adult brains, while all 10 brains investigated by the other technique showed new brain cells. What are the reasons behind this difference, it is yet to be ascertained.
A new hope towards treatment
Experts like Dr. Rajiv Ratan and Dr. Taylor Kimberly, associated with Harvard University, believe that this research can bring revolutionary changes in the world of neurology. If the relationship between neurogenesis and diseases (such as Alzheimer’s) could be understood, it can open the way of new drugs and treatments.
Marta Patralini believes that if the adult brain can cure itself and create new neurons, it may redefine learning, recovery and unique capacity of brain.
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