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Rapid Infant Prefrontal Cortex Development and Sensitivity to Early Environmental Experience.
1University of Minnesota.
Developmental Review : DR
|October 2, 2018
Summary
The prefrontal cortex develops rapidly in infancy, not late as previously thought. Early environmental factors significantly impact this crucial brain development, highlighting the need for early interventions.
Area of Science:
- Developmental cognitive neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
- Child development
Background:
- The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is widely perceived as a "late developing" brain region due to its protracted maturation in childhood.
- However, recent research indicates PFC development is highly sensitive to early environmental influences, even within the first year of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neuroimaging evidence characterizing the prefrontal cortex as a "rapidly developing" brain region.
- To discuss the impact of early adverse environments on prefrontal circuits and development.
- To present mechanisms through which environmental factors shape PFC development.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent neuroimaging studies.
- Analysis of research on early environmental impacts on brain development.
- Synthesis of findings on prefrontal cortex plasticity.
Main Results:
- Neuroimaging data suggest the prefrontal cortex undergoes rapid development early in life.
- Early adverse environments demonstrably impact prefrontal cortex development within the first year.
- Environmental factors can shape both immediate and long-term prefrontal cortex structure and function.
Conclusions:
- The prefrontal cortex should be viewed as a "rapidly developing" region, particularly vulnerable to early environmental influences.
- Intervention and prevention science must focus on early development to leverage this period of heightened plasticity.
- Addressing environmental disparities early is crucial for optimal prefrontal cortex development.
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