Reacción a "The most extensive gene expression map of the prefrontal cortex suggests that the maturation process is completed around age 24"

This study presents a transcriptomic atlas based on single nuclei from the human dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, spanning the entire lifespan—from 0 to 97 years of age—using samples from 284 donors. This region of the cortex is involved in key cognitive functions such as problem-solving, planning, and emotional regulation, and is among the areas most susceptible to age-related decline.

The atlas reveals that gene expression in the cells of this cortex follows a non-linear trajectory throughout life. Changes are particularly pronounced during early development—including gliogenesis, synaptic remodeling, and apoptosis—followed by stabilization during adulthood. It also conclusively confirms that the age of 24 marks a turning point; beyond this age, the composition of most neuronal and glial subclasses remains stable, with few exceptions. In other words, cerebral cortex maturation extends beyond childhood and adolescence, concluding at age 24—the point marking the end of youth and the onset of adulthood. This is highly significant, as the data clarify the age up to which an individual may be considered immature and outline the potential impact of inadequate educational systems, social media exposure, and other alienating influences (such as cults, drugs, or alcohol) on brain development.

In summary, the atlas provides a foundation for understanding the cellular program transitions that shift the brain from a state of resilience to one of vulnerability. Indeed, one of the identified trajectories can be interpreted as representing neuronal resilience, as it shows reduced expression of genes associated with the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, peaking around ages 12–13. This suggests that alterations induced prior to this critical window could have long-term functional consequences. On the other hand, defining the various turning points during development and aging may represent windows of opportunity for therapeutic intervention and guide the design of strategies to preserve brain health and reduce age-related cognitive decline.