Can Synapses Be Destroyed?

Synaptic pruning is a natural process that occurs in the brain between early childhood and adulthood. During synaptic pruning, the brain eliminates extra synapses. ... Synaptic pruning is thought to be the brain's way of removing connections in the brain that are no longer needed.

What happens if the synapse is damaged?

Synapse damage and loss are fundamental to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and lead to reduced cognitive function.

Does pruning destroy synapses?

Your brain's pruning gardeners are called 'microglial cells,'” according to Pollack and Cabane. “They prune your synaptic connections. ... When microglial cells detect C1q, they bond to it, and destroy the synapse. A key concept here is that this is done in our sleep.