Submission + - New neurons preferentially replace active neurons
Danny Rathjens writes: "Science Daily reports that, "Like any new kid on the block that tries to fit in, newborn brain cells need to find their place within the existing network of neurons. The newcomers jump right into the fray and preferentially reach out to mature brain cells that are already well connected within the established circuitry, report scientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in the online edition of Nature Neuroscience." Most interesting was that, "Providing the mice with a stimulating, enriched environment — large cages filled with running wheels, colored tunnels and playmates — boost the number of neurons that manage to hook up with the existing network to 80 percent [from 50%], reinforcing the observation that using one's brain cells is the best way to optimize brain function throughout one's lifetime." Plus it is just really cool that they can observe these types of things like new neurons extending protrusions to find active neurons and take over at the nanometer scale."
