Fathers aid development of larger brains
Reliable and stable paternal care is correlated with the evolution of larger brains in their offspring.... Read More...
brain size
All Too Human: The Price We Pay for Our Advanced Brains May Be a Greater Tendency to Disorders
Researchers report the neural code of the prefrontal cortex is more efficient than the amygdala in both humans and primates. The lower resistance of the amygdala to errors in humans may play a role in exaggerated survival responses, such as those seen in anxiety and PTSD.... Read More...
Genes with Large Effect on Head and Brain Size Discovered
Researchers report genetic influences on head circumference remain stable during development and are correlated with genetic factors which contribute to intracranial volume.... Read More...
Excessive Body Fat Around Middle Linked to Smaller Brain Size
Researchers report obesity and excessive body fat around the middle is associated with lower grey matter volume in the brain. The study also found a link between obesity and shrinkage in specific brain areas.... Read More...
Building a Bigger Brain
ARHGAP11B, a gene unique to humans and active in the cerebral cortex, causes enlargement of the ferret neocortex when introduced during development. ... Read More...
Bigger Brains Are Smarter, But Not By Much
Neuroimaging information reveals a small but significant positive association between brain volume and cognitive performance.... Read More...
Bigger Brains Could Increase Cancer Risk
A new study reports bigger brain size could mean an increased risk of developing brain cancer. The reason, researchers say, is simple. Bigger brains have more brain cells, and thus a greater potential for cell mutations that lead to cancer.... Read More...
Stress May Affect Brain Size and Memory in Middle Age
A new study reports middle aged people with higher levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, have lower brain volume and a higher risk of memory impairment.... Read More...
Small Brained Female Guppies Are Not Drawn to Attractive Males
A new study reports female guppies with smaller brain mass can distinguish between attractive males, but do not find them more appealing or choose to mate with them over less attractive guppies. Researchers say the study sheds new light of the link between mate preference and cognitive ability.... Read More...
Male Guppies Grow Larger Brains in Response to Predator Exposure
Researchers report male guppies who live in an environment with predators have greater brain mass than those who live in a predator free environment. However, there is no difference in brain size for female guppies.... Read More...
Bigger Human Brain Prioritizes Thinking Hub, But at a Cost
A new study reports the larger the growth of areas associated with thinking in the cortex, the slower the growth of regions associated with emotional, sensory and motor skills.... Read More...
Brain Size Mediates the Association Between Height and Cognitive Ability
Researchers have identified a link between cortical surface area, height and cognitive ability. The study reports taller people have bigger cortices, which in turn is linked to better cognitive function. ... Read More...