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neurogenesis

/ˌnjʊə.rəʊˈdʒen.ɪ.sɪs/
IELTSAcademic
noun

Neurogenesis is the process of making new nerve cells in the brain or nervous system. It often refers to growth in the brain, especially in early life, and sometimes in adults.

  • Exercise may help support neurogenesis.
  • Scientists study neurogenesis in the hippocampus.
  • The article explained adult neurogenesis.

Adinary Nuance

Neurogenesis is more specific than brain growth. It means the creation of new nerve cells, not just overall brain development. It is also different from neuroplasticity, which means the brain changes its connections and adapts. Writers use neurogenesis when they mean new neurons are being formed.

In other languages

Vietnamese
sự sinh nơ-ron
Spanish
neurogénesis
Chinese
神经发生
Japanese
神経新生
Korean
신경발생

Etymology

It comes from Greek: neuro- meaning "nerve" and -genesis meaning "origin" or "creation." The word entered scientific English in the 19th century.

Common phrases

adult neurogenesishippocampal neurogenesissupport neurogenesisstudy neurogenesis

Synonyms

Related words

Frequently asked questions

Is neurogenesis the same as neuroplasticity?
No. Neurogenesis means making new nerve cells. Neuroplasticity means the brain changes its connections and learns.
Is neurogenesis a common word?
It is common in science, medicine, and academic writing, but not in everyday speech.
Can adults have neurogenesis?
Yes, some studies suggest adults can form new neurons in certain brain areas.
How do I use neurogenesis in a sentence?
Use it when talking about the formation of new neurons in the brain.