"Scientists at the University of Cambridge's cognition and brain sciences unit have used images of roughly 3,800 "neurotypical" brains, ranging in age from birth to 90, to pinpoint these turning points where our brains change shape to serve different functions as we grow, age, and eventually decline. Roughly speaking, ages nine, 32, 66, and 83 mark pivotal shifts in how our brains operate. "This study is the first to identify major phases of brain wiring across a human lifespan," Dr. Alexa Mousley, who led the research, said in a release."
"From birth to age nine, the brain is in growth mode. Billions of connections are generated. There is a ton of what neuroscientists call synaptic "pruning" and consolidation happening, as important brain connections are strengthened, while weaker synapses die off. Adolescence is a multi-decade process in the brain, lasting from about age nine to 32. During this time, there's more refinement of brain communication"
MRI tractography of roughly 3,800 neurotypical brains aged birth to 90 mapped how nerve fibers shift, grow, and die across the lifespan. Five major brain-wiring eras emerge with pivotal transitions near ages 9, 32, 66, and 83. Childhood (0–9) features explosive connection growth and extensive synaptic pruning and consolidation. Adolescence (9–32) is a prolonged refinement phase of brain communication and wiring. Adulthood (32–66) shows relative stability and functional specialization. Later life (66–83 and 83+) reveals progressive wiring degradation and accelerated decline. These timelines can illuminate atypical development trajectories and inform understanding of neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia.
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