Which process is the elimination of unused synapses called?

Which process is the elimination of unused synapses called?

• A. Neurogenesis
• B. Synaptogenesis
• C. Pruning
• D. Myelination

Answer: (C)

Pruning is the process of eliminating unused synapses to refine neural circuits. During development the brain overproduces synaptic connections, and through experience-driven activity, weaker or less-used synapses are targeted for removal. This trimming makes neural networks more efficient and specialized, supporting faster and more accurate information processing. It’s most prominent in childhood and adolescence but can continue as the brain tunes itself with experience. The removal is driven by neural activity and activity-dependent signaling that marks less active connections for elimination. If synapses are being formed rather than removed, that would be synaptogenesis. If new neurons are being created, that’s neurogenesis. If axons are being insulated with myelin to speed transmission, that’s myelination.

Pruning is the process of eliminating unused synapses to refine neural circuits. During development the brain overproduces synaptic connections, and through experience-driven activity, weaker or less-used synapses are targeted for removal. This trimming makes neural networks more efficient and specialized, supporting faster and more accurate information processing. It’s most prominent in childhood and adolescence but can continue as the brain tunes itself with experience. The removal is driven by neural activity and activity-dependent signaling that marks less active connections for elimination.

If synapses are being formed rather than removed, that would be synaptogenesis. If new neurons are being created, that’s neurogenesis. If axons are being insulated with myelin to speed transmission, that’s myelination.