Science & Nature · 2
What percentage of synaptic connections are pruned away during adolescence in some brain regions?
Answer
Up to 50%
Synaptic pruning during adolescence is highly specific and pronounced—resulting in loss of close to 50% of synaptic connections in some brain regions, while other regions show little decline. This process refines brain connectivity into adult-typical patterns through elimination of weak or unused synaptic connections. With fewer but stronger pathways, the brain becomes more efficient, organized, and faster at processing information.
💡 Did you know?
Adolescent synaptic pruning explains why teenagers can't regain earlier advantages of learning during childhood.
Other options people guess
- 5-10%
- 25%
- 80-90%
Topics
- neuroscience
- adolescence
- neuroplasticity
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