Skip to main content

Synaptic Refinement

Meaning

Synaptic Refinement is a crucial neurobiological process involving the selective strengthening, weakening, or elimination of synapses, the functional connections between neurons, which is essential for the formation of precise neural circuits and stable memory. This process is highly active during brain development but continues throughout life, underpinning neuroplasticity, learning, and cognitive function. Hormonal health is intimately involved, as neurosteroids and gonadal hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, directly modulate the expression of synaptic proteins and the morphological stability of dendritic spines. Impaired refinement is implicated in age-related cognitive decline and certain neuroendocrine disorders.