Can adults make new brain cells? New study may finally settle one of neuroscience’s greatest debates

By Theresa Sullivan Barger – Live Science

Researchers say they have found clear evidence that the human brain can keep making new neurons well into adulthood, potentially settling decades of controversy.

This new neuron growth, or “neurogenesis,” takes place in the hippocampus, a critical part of the brain involved in learning, memory and emotions.

“In short, our work puts to rest the long-standing debate about whether adult human brains can grow new neurons,” co-lead study author Marta Paterlini, a researcher at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, told Live Science in an email.