Is it possible for new brain cells to grow?

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There's a common belief that people are born with a fixed number of neurons and that new ones are no longer possible. This was based on the idea that motor (movement) and cognitive (thought) functions decline as people get old. However, Dr. Curtis Cripe notes several studies suggesting otherwise. This will be the discussion in today's article.

For the past 20 years or so, research on the hippocampus area of the brain -- the region associated with learning, memories, and emotions -- has found a continuous rebuilding of new cells regardless of age or time. Further studies using carbon-14 dating also found that cells in the same region, while diminishing, are quickly replaced by new ones. This process, noted by scientists, can keep the central functions of the hippocampus.

Research like these are significant, in such a way, that they suggest that there are stimuli and inhibitors of adult neurogenesis, says Dr. Curtis Cripe. He further noted possible hints and possible treatment of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's and the recovery from traumatic brain injury.

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Surprisingly, among the ways that can potentially amp up adult neurogenesis is exercise. Scientists at the University of Chicago found that aerobic exercise led to cell production in the hippocampus, and increased genetic information is encoded. Scientists also found brain exercises are equally important. Still, it cannot be discounted that age, especially at 80, can reverse such gains. But people should not be dissuaded to seek the benefits of physical and brain exercise, even as more research is necessary.

Dr. Curtis Cripe has a diverse multidisciplinary background which includes neuroengineering technology, aerospace engineering, software development, addiction recovery, among others. He is the head of research and development at the NTL Group. More on Dr. Cripe and his work here.

Parental concern: Detecting depression in children

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Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group has always been a fierce advocate of mental health and wellness. A huge part of his research deals with the mental health issues that children experience. For this blog, Dr. Cripe reviews childhood depression, more specifically, how to detect it in children.

In case people are still wondering, science has proven that depression exists and is a real problem that needs to be addressed. For parents, it is imperative that they know whether or not their children experience this serious issue.

Below is a list of signs and symptoms to look out for, as shared by Dr. Curtis Cripe.

1. A break in routines

Deviation in patterns may be a cause for concern. Though they may not necessarily be red flags, a sudden change in what children do, for example – simply not finding joy in what used to be their favorite regular activity, maybe a sign that something is off in their minds.

2. Lack of appetite

The unwillingness to eat and nourish oneself isn’t just a sign of depression in adults; it also applies to children. Children are indeed the pickiest eaters out there, so it may be difficult for some parents to catch, but Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions that when children don’t even touch their favorite dishes, it may be a cause for concern.

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3. Long-term negative behavior

When children experience failures in life, these incidents may have a profound albeit sometimes subtle effect on them. They may seem angry for long periods. If it takes more than a few weeks, parents should take action, Dr. Curtis Cripe adds.

Dr. Curtis Cripe has behind him a diverse multidisciplinary professional and academic background, having worked in aerospace, engineering, software development, bioengineering, addiction recovery, psychophysiology, psychology, and child neurodevelopment. Check out this blog for more insights on neurology and related fields.

A glimpse at the history of neuroengineering

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In the field of medicine, very few things intrigue people as much as the human brain. Naturally, research on it has garnered more attention than most any topic. And this is one reason Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group believes neuroengineering deserves to be in the spotlight.

If one looks back at the history of neuroengineering, the field that combines engineering techniques and the science of the neural system, it is almost as if many of the events were taken from a science fiction novel or movie; especially in recent years when leading researchers in the field have been able to create interfaces and facilitate interaction between the human neural system and non-living constructs.

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Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that neuroengineering as a discipline began a bit later than other research fields, mainly since the technology to accomplish what researchers set out to do had not yet been developed. And while researchers have made significant strides in neuroengineering, there is still much to be learned about the human brain and the electronic gadgets that can interact with it.

The first official global conference on neuroengineering took place in 2003. The following year, several journals and reports started to be published. Today, neuroengineers worldwide get together regularly to discuss findings, compare notes, and push the field forward, Dr. Curtis Cripe adds.

Dr. Curtis Cripe played an important role in the development of the programs being used by the NTL Group, which specializes in the treatment of learning disabilities and neurological diseases. More information on Dr. Cripe and his work here.