A new method identified a large set of gene regulatory regions in the brain, selected throughout human evolution. Read More
A new study argues the way in which humans store memories is key to making human intelligence more superior to that of animals. Read More
Study reveals a new role for serotonin in the development of the human neocortex. Serotonin acts cell-extrinsically as a growth factor for basal progenitors in the developing neocortex. Researchers report placenta-driven serotonin likely contributed to the evolutionary expansion of the neocortex in humans. Read More
Researchers have identified a brain pathway between the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and the inferior temporal cortex which enables primates to effortlessly identify objects in their field of vision. Read More
Researchers have deciphered two axes along which the human brain is organized. The axes are mainly determined by genetic factors. Read More
When the expression of the ER-alpha gene was blocked in white-throated sparrows, the level of aggression they exhibited decreased. Read More
The inferior temporal cortex is capable of performing tasks, such as distinguishing between real and nonsense words and picking out specific letters from words. Read More
High resolution imaging reveals the human cerebellum is 80% of the area of the cortex. The findings indicate this area of the brain likely grew larger as human behavior and cognition evolved. Read More
Primates with larger brains can solve much more complex tasks using their hands than smaller-brained primates. However, improved dexterity comes at a cost. In humans and other large-brained primates, it takes longer for infants to learn the simplest hand and finger movements than our smaller-brained counterparts. Read More
Genomic research finds those who inherited a special ion channel from Neanderthals experience more pain. Read More
Envy alters individual behavior and, consequently, a person's strategies in characteristic ways. As a result of changed behavior, two separate social classes arise. Read More
Study reveals the progesterone receptor gene evolved rapidly in humans, but there is no evidence to support this happened because the changes were advantageous to our species. Researchers report the evolutionary force of selection was so weak that the gene accumulated harmful mutations as it evolved in humans. Progesterone receptor genes are vital during pregnancy as it supplies developing cells the ability to create progesterone receptors. Read More
