Structural plasticity of the adult brain

The adult brain has long been considered stable and unchanging, except for the inevitable decline that occurs with aqinq. This view is now being challenged with clear evidence that structural changes occur in the brain throughout life, including the generation of new neurons and other brain cells, and connections between and among neurons. What is as remarkable is that the changes that occur in the adult brain are influenced by the behaviors an individual engages in, as well as the environment in which an individual lives, works, and plays. Learning how behavior and environment regulate brain structure and function will lead to strategies to live more effective lives and perhaps protect from, or repair, brain damage and brain disease.