Scientists from the University of Cambridge and the University of Jones Hopkins have challenged the widely held belief that the brain can restructure itself to compensate for vision loss, amputations, or stroke damage. In a recent article published in the journal Elife, Professor Tamar Makin from Cambridge and John Krakauer from Jones Hopkins argue that the brain does not create new functions in response to these changes, but rather utilizes existing hidden capabilities.
The researchers examined ten foundational studies and found that while these studies demonstrate the brain’s ability to adapt to changes, they do not indicate the development of entirely new functions in unrelated areas. Makin highlights one study in which the absence of an index finger was simulated. The results revealed that the brain simply intensified existing signals from the other fingers instead of restructuring itself.
A similar example from a study involving congenitally deaf cats supports this theory. The cats’ auditory cortex, typically responsible for processing sounds, appeared to restructure itself to process visual information. However, after receiving cochlear implants, this brain region resumed processing sounds, indicating that no actual restructuring had occurred.
Makin and Krakauer emphasize that rather than completely reassigning brain areas for new tasks, the brain undergoes an enhancement or modification of its existing architecture through repetition and training. This understanding is crucial in setting realistic expectations for patients undergoing rehabilitation.
Makin further explains, “The learning process confirms the brain’s remarkable yet limited plasticity. There are no shortcuts on this journey. The idea of rapidly unlocking hidden potential or tapping into untapped brain reserves is more of a dream than a reality. It is a slow and gradual path that demands effort and practice.”