Neurogenesis In Adulthood

“Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability of persons under 45 years old in the United States, affecting 1.5 million individuals each year.” (Sun, 2014) Until recently recovery of the brain from TBI was thought to be very limited as scientists believed brains cells in adults did not regenerate, but in the 1990’s Gould observed neurogenesis and application of neurogenesis began. This paper will provide an overview of neurogenesis, it’s potential for treatment of TBI, and controversies over the research as it continues.

BACKGROUND

“Neurogenesis is the birth of new neurons from neural stem and progenitor cells in the brain.” (Gould, 2003) Until the 1990s scientist believed neurogenesis in humans discontinued when adulthood was reached. Research over the 1980s and 1990s began to contradict this thinking and showed the promise of neurogenesis in adult mammals. In 2000, researchers Gould and Erickson published a scientific paper supporting neurogenesis in adults. The theory of neurogenesis was amended to include the continued generation of neurons in the adult human and with that began the application for neurogenesis in neurological disorders, including TBI.

TBI in adults often leaves the person with life long

Psilocybin, found in mushrooms, caused long term positive changes and increased positive feelings for the subjects. Ibogaine, found in the root bark in Central Africa, also showed much promise. This chemical attaches itself to fat and stays in the body for long periods of time, so not only was it effective but also was long lasting. Many other drugs also showed a positive effect on neurogenesis; ketamine, cannabis, noopept, ayahuasca and melatonin. These are still being studied for treatment and long term effect and practicality of use as some of them are illegal and/or hard to get in the United