My fascination with the human brain began at an early age mainly because of the seeds planted by my grandfather, the late Robert J. Doman M.D., whom I have written about before. The stories he told and the patients I was fortunate to meet over the years of my youth were gratifying evidence of the brain’s ability to rewire itself, long before the concept of neuroplasticity became something the medical community began to acknowledge. Now ideas that were discarded by critics in the past are beginning to enter the mainstream. Perhaps because of these early influences I continue to be intrigued by the possibilities that have begun to present themselves with the advent of advanced research methods and new technologies.

One important person who appears to share this fascination is Zack Lynch, who founded an organization that Advanced Brain Technologies  is proud to be a member of; the Neurotechnology Industry Organization.  The mission of NIO is “to accelerate treatments and cures for brain and nervous system diseases by increasing the awareness of neurotechnologies, reducing barriers to innovation and supporting long term industry growth.” http://www.neurotechindustry.org

Zack has just published a new book that I am very much looking forward to reading in the near future: The Neuro Revolution: How Brain Science Is Changing Our World. He has had unique access to many of the new technologies that could transform our society, and has shared information that all of us should be aware of, since these technologies could transform society as we know it.

Learn more about The Neuro Revolution http://www.theneurorevolution.com

YOUR BRAIN IS GROWING! Brain plasticity (the brain’s ability to change itself) is a concept that was not totally accepted until the last couple of decades, although early brain development pioneers including neurosurgeons Temple Fay, M.D.;  Eugene Spitz, M.D.; and physciatrist Robert J. Doman, M.D., knew this was possible dating back to the mid twentieth century. Now it’s commonly accepted in the scientific community that the brain grows new connections through dendritic growth and synaptic propagation.

A more recent theory in neuroscience and neurobiology is Adult Neurogenesis (birth of neurons) in which new neurons are created. There was a long-held belief that adult neurogenesis didn’t occur, but that precept is changing. In fact adult neurogenesis does appear to be a reality and is thought to promote neuroplasticity. Further research shows that new adult neurons may help us learn complex tasks, and flourish when challenged.   

Scientific American published an in depth article How to Save New Brain Cells in the March 2009 Issue that delves into the science that provides support for the benefits of engaging in mentally stimulating tasks.  The author is Tracey J. Shors, a professor in the department of psychology and the Center for Collaborative Neuroscience at Rutgers University.

The article opens up the possibility that exercising your mind with brain fitness programs, BrainBuilder® is one such program, may have a real basis in neurobiology. 

Read Article http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=saving-new-brain-cells