Busting a Few Persistent Misconceptions About The Brain

The brain is a complex and dynamic organ.  Because much of it had been (and still is) poorly understood, many myths shared as fact by laypersons have sprung.

Image source: independent.co.uk

One of the most persistent myths about the human brain is that its component cells, the neurons, do not divide.People are born with all the brain cells they would even have in their lifetimes.The same was thought to be true for neurons present in nerves, with the exception being the olfactory neurons in the nose.


Today, however, it is now known that not only does neurogenesis take place in key regions of the brain but also that the brain’s ability to produce new neurons is intrinsically linked to mental stimulation and engagement.

Indeed, neurogenesis, together with mental plasticity, plays a key role in maintaining the resilience of the brain.  Mental stimulation in the limbic system, which includes such disparate mentally engaging activities such as video games and sports, encourages the continued production of cells, while constant activity and engagement stimulates the creation of newer, denser, and stronger connections among neurons.


However dynamic the brain is, it would not necessarily show in its convolutions, contrary to a widely-held belief that one gets new wrinkles as the brain develops.The brain receives all its wrinkles throughout fetal development. This is not the only myth surrounding the brain’s appearance; merely being bigger does not mean that a brain would be more intelligent.

Image source: whatthefaculty.com

Finally, the most persistent of these myths is the notion that all brain damage is irreversible.  Thanks to its natural resilience, it is possible with some effort and guidance to repair damaged connections, eventually restoring impaired and even lost functions within the brain.


Dr. Curtis Cripe’s work in neuroengineering and brain plasticity lies at the heart of the NTL Group’s programs for cognitive repair. Learn more of its applications from this website.