The process by which the brain eliminates its toxic wastes and substances.
Brain clearance is a set of biological mechanisms that allow the brain to “clean” itself and maintain a healthy environment for its cells.
It is based primarily on:
- The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which circulates around and within the brain to drain waste.
- The glymphatic system, which facilitates the elimination of molecules such as abnormal proteins (e.g. beta-amyloid, involved in Alzheimer’s).
- Blood circulation, which also carries certain substances to be eliminated to the liver or kidneys.
This process is particularly active during sleep, when the spaces between brain cells expand to promote drainage. Altered clearance may contribute to the accumulation of toxins and some neurological diseases.
Other Words That May Be of Interest to You
- Cerebrospinal or cerebrospinal fluid :
- Fluid circulating around the brain, spinal cord and cerebral ventricles.