An important process for brain development and health

Synaptic pruning is a fundamental neurological process. This happens in the brain, essentially, during such stages of development as childhood and adolescence. During this process The brain eliminates some synapses (connections between neurons) that are considered unnecessary or redundant, thereby optimizing brain function and nervous system development.

Doctor José Ramon Valdisan, neurologist at the HLA Clínica Montpellier, Explain: “During the first years of life, many synapses are formed, five times more than necessary. This excess is eliminated as the brain develops, reaching its peak in adolescence.This process is called “synaptic pruning” or “neuronal pruning,” and its goal is to eliminate unnecessary neural structures to increase the surface area available to receive neurotransmitters that facilitate brain communication.”

Synaptic pruning occurs primarily in two phases: the first, between the ages of one and a half and two, enables the development of basic functions such as walking and speech. The second, around age 11–12, begins in the occipital region and spreads toward the prefrontal lobe until age 25, promoting the development of cognitive functions such as self-control and planning. “Sleep, especially REM sleep, plays a critical role in this development, strengthening the neural circuitry and improving behavior after learning,” adds Dr. Valdisan.

The influence of experience and environment

The process of synaptic pruning is influenced by a person’s experience and environment.. The most used connections are strengthened, and the least used ones are eliminated. Changes in this process can be associated with various neurological and mental disorders. “Disruption of fetal development or a disorder at a critical age can change the normal evolution of the brain, contributing to the emergence of conditions such as autism or schizophrenia,” the specialist explains.

Determining which synapses to remove and which to preserve is a complex process. and is based on several factors, mainly neuronal activity and molecular signaling. “We can use tools like functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, electroencephalogram, or magnetoencephalogram brain mapping, which show us the brain’s responses. to various stimuli, assessing hypervoltaged areas, that is, areas where, due to insufficient pruning, an excess number of neurons remains,” explains the neurologist.

Abnormal synapse pruning, either excessive or insufficient, can have serious consequences for brain development and may be associated with some neurodevelopmental disorders and psychiatric conditions.”There are three neurodevelopmental disorders in which a change in trimming results in a severe clinical picture: schizophrenia, autism, and ADHD.“Its consequences are important because they change the capacity for social relationships,” adds Valdisan.

Recent studies have shed light on the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating synaptic pruning.. A study from Kyushu University in Japan has shown that glutamate, a stimulatory neurotransmitter, plays a crucial role in eliminating weak synapses. “These advances not only improve our understanding of normal brain development, but also open up new avenues for treating various neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases,” emphasizes Dr. Valdisan.

To support healthy brain development and optimize synaptic pruning, Various practices are recommended, such as cognitive stimulation, social interaction, stress management, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, avoiding harmful substances, regular medical check-ups, and maintaining proper nutrition and hydration..

Ultimately, synaptic pruning This is an important process that optimizes brain connections, facilitating learning as well as cognitive and emotional development. Understanding and supporting this process can have significant implications for neuropsychological health. and treatment of various conditions.