MIT scientists discover millions of “silent synapses” in the adult brain
MIT neuroscientists have uncovered a surprising secret hidden in the adult brain: millions of “silent synapses,” dormant connections that lie in wait until new learning calls them into action. Once thought to exist only in early development, these inactive links make up about 30% of synapses in the adult cortex and can be rapidly activated to form fresh memories.
The science section covers breakthroughs in medicine, physics, biology, and technology. We surface discoveries that expand what humanity can do, from new treatments reaching clinical trials to engineering feats that seemed impossible a decade ago. Every link goes to the original publisher so you can read the full study or press release yourself.
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