A City in Transformation
Imagine a baby’s brain as a vibrant city coming to life. Researchers have discovered that during birth, parts of this “city” experience rapid growth, preparing the newborn for the challenges of life outside the womb.
Subcortical Growth Spurt
In a study involving over 180 brain scans of fetuses and newborns aged 25 to 55 weeks after conception, scientists observed varying growth patterns. While some areas grew steadily, the subcortical network—a vital hub for communication in the brain—underwent a sudden growth surge around birth. This burst likely enables babies to quickly process new experiences in their surroundings.
The Importance of Understanding Newborn Brains
This discovery is critical for improving care strategies for newborns, especially premature infants. By understanding these growth patterns, doctors can better support healthy brain development, ensuring these babies receive the right care during their most formative stage.
The Importance of Understanding Newborn Brains
This discovery is critical for improving care strategies for newborns, especially premature infants. By understanding these growth patterns, doctors can better support healthy brain development, ensuring these babies receive the right care during their most formative stage.
Source: SciMex
