It depends a bit on what you define by "replace"; we know neurogenesis occurs in selected brain areas (e.g. olfactory bulb, hippocampus), but in general a new neuron will not perform the exact same function as an old neuron. Of course, due to the redundant nature of cortical networks, it does not need to in order to preserve network functionality.

It depends a bit on what you define by "replace"; we know neurogenesis occurs in selected brain areas (e.g. olfactory bulb, hippocampus), but in general a new neuron will not perform the exact same function as an old neuron. Of course, due to the redundant nature of cortical networks, it does not need to in order to preserve network functionality.

Thanks...Matthijs for uor information ...I mean artificial replacement with almost similar functionality...

Are you talking about stem cell treatments? If so, there is evidence that suggests this can work but its still very early stage. The biggest problem is getting "fresh neurons" to differentiate and connect properly.

There is evidence that one can be replaced following ablation by an identical neuron from another individual and establish connections to be fully functional in the Lymnaea model system. See: Syed NI, Ridgway R, Lukowiak K, Bulloch AGM. Transplantation and functional regeneration of an identified respiratory interneuron in Lymnaea stagnalis. Neuron. 1992;8:767–774.

thanks..Alan & Sarah...