A new study from Boston University looks at how some bird brains make new neurons. Researchers studied the zebra finch, a small Australian songbird that learns new songs. The findings appear in Current Biology and may help scientists plan future therapies for humans.
The team used electron microscopy-based connectomics, a very high-powered imaging method, to watch neurogenesis — the birth, migration and maturation of neurons. They tracked new neurons as they moved through adult brain tissue toward existing circuits. The researchers saw new neurons often tunnel through mature tissue, pushing past older cells. This tunneling may help add skills or repair damage, but it could also harm existing cells and memories.
Difficult words
- neuron — A nerve cell in the brain.neurons
- neurogenesis — The birth of new nerve cells.
- migration — Movement from one place to another.
- mature — Fully developed or grown in size.
- tunnel — Move through a hole or narrow space.tunneling
- connectomics — Study of brain connections using detailed imaging.
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Discussion questions
- Have you ever learned a new song or skill? How did you learn it?
- Do you think new brain cells could help people recover after an injury? Why or why not?
- Are you more interested in the possible benefits or the possible harms of new neurons? Explain briefly.
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