More proof that mental activity can help fight off mental decline (like memory loss!)

Some neurobiologists at UC Irvine created a visualization technique to study memory and found that mental activity "animate neuron receptors that help keep the brain cells functioning at optimum levels."

Basically, these receptors are turned on by BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which helps the connections between brain cells grow.

They also found that theta rhythms (learning-related brain rhythms that help encode new memories) trigger BDNF signals.

Since the researchers believe that theta rhythms weaken as we age (which causes memory decline), they also believe that staying mentally active can keep BDNF signaling at a regular rate (which will help fight off age-related cognitive decline). 

The next step for neuroscientists? To figure out if certain medications/drugs can increase learning-induced growth signals.

Read the study here:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/181094.php