The human brain is an amazing and complex machine. It is made up of billions of cells called neurons, which use electrical impulses to communicate with each other. These impulses are transmitted across a tiny gap between the cells, called a synapse.
In order for the brain to function properly, it is important that the connections between the neurons are strong and stable. However, during childhood and adolescence, the brain goes through a process known as “synaptic pruning”, in which it gets rid of unnecessary or weak connections between neurons. This process is thought to be important for normal brain development and learning.
Synaptic pruning occurs when the brain starts to produce less of a protein called “brain-derived neurotrophic factor” (BDNF). BDNF helps to keep connections between neurons strong and healthy. When there is less BDNF around, the connections between neurons become weaker and are more likely to be removed by the brain.
It is not clear exactly why synaptic pruning occurs, but it is thought to be important for ensuring that the brain functions efficiently. For example, if there are too many weak or unused connections in the brain, this can lead to problems with memory and learning. By getting rid of these unused connections (known as “neural plasticity”), synaptic pruning may help improve cognitive function.
Synaptic pruning appears to be particularly important during adolescence, when the brain undergoes major changes and reorganization. This period of intense change may help explain why teenagers sometimes behave erratically or make impulsive decisions – their brains are literally rewiring themselves! Synaptic pruning may also play a role in mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, which often first appear during adolescence.
While scientists are still trying to understand all of the implications of synaptic pruning, it is clear that this process plays an important role in normal brain development and function