More specifically, it activates neurons in a specific area of the brain called the ventral tegmental area (VTA). This region is part of what is known as the reward system.

The idea that the adult brain retains the capacity to produce new neurons, called adult neurogenesis, was first described by Goldman and others in the 1980s while studying neuroplasticity in canaries.

Pardillo-Díaz, R., et al. (2025) The subventricular zone neurogenic niche provides adult born functional neurons to repair cortical brain injuries in response to diterpenoid therapy. Stem Cell ...

Moreover, the study revealed that these neurons have a more complex morphology and altered synaptic connections to their neighbors, which could explain why they are overactive.

The idea that the adult brain retains the capacity to produce new neurons, called adult neurogenesis, was first described by Goldman and others in the 1980s while studying neuroplasticity in canaries.

Brain's own repair mechanism: New neurons may reverse damage in Huntington's disease Date: April 7, 2025 Source: University of Rochester Medical Center Summary: New research shows that the adult ...