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evolution

·September 2, 2021·5 min read

Many of the Fastest-Evolving Human Genes Linked to Evolutionary Changes in Brain Development

Almost half of the identified human accelerated regions of the genome appear to act as neurodevelopment enhancers, researchers say. The findings shed new light on the genetic basis of human evolution.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 16, 2021·3 min read

A New Theory of Life’s Multiple Origins

In order to understand life's full range of forms, new theoretical frameworks must be developed, researchers say.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·July 16, 2021·5 min read

Climate Changed the Size of Our Bodies and, To Some Extent, Our Brains

A new study reveals the impact climate played in the evolution of the human brain and body. Studying 300 fossils from the genus Homo found across the globe, researchers found those who lived in colder climates had larger body frames. Larger bodies provided a buffer from colder temperatures. Brain size tended to be larger in those who lived in environments with less vegetation and survived by hunting large animals, a task that involved higher cognitive function.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·July 1, 2021·3 min read

Biological Purpose of Near Death Experiences Uncovered

Human near-death experiences may have arisen from an evolutionary mechanism, researchers report.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 26, 2021·3 min read

‘Dragon Man’ Fossil May Replace Neanderthals as Our Closest Relative

The recently discovered Homo longi lineage may be our closest relative. The findings have the potential to reshape our understanding of human evolution.

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Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 14, 2021·3 min read

Breeding Foxes for Opposite Behaviors Produces Similar Brain Changes

Foxes bred to be either tame or aggressive had increased size in similar brain regions, a new study reports. The animals bred for specific behavioral traits had larger brains than those that were conventionally bred. The findings contradict existing theories of animal domestication.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 26, 2021·6 min read

Amazon Indigenous Group’s Lifestyle May Hold a Key to Slowing Down Aging

The Tsimane, an indigenous people from the Bolivian Amazon, have less brain atrophy than American aging adults, a new study reports. Additionally, the decrease in their brain volume associated with aging is 70% less than seen in older American adults.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 10, 2021·7 min read

Reading Minds to Understand Human Tool Use

Combining brain imaging data with machine learning, researchers make new discoveries about how the brain controls the hand. The findings could lead to the development of more advanced neuroprosthetics.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·May 6, 2021·4 min read

The Cerebellum May Have Played an Important Role in the Evolution of the Human Brain

The cerebellum underwent evolutionary changes that may have contributed to the development of language, culture, and tool use in humans, a new study reveals.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·April 10, 2021·5 min read

A Discovery That “Literally Changes the Textbook”

Study of gar fish reveals the modern eye-brain connection may have evolved much earlier than previously believed.

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Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 9, 2021·5 min read

Masculine Traits Linked to Better Parenting For Some Dads

Some traditional masculine stereotypes, such as being adventurous and competitive, were linked to being better fathers to infant children. This is especially true if men also adopt a nurturing role. However, one trait, hostile sexism, was not linked to improvements in parenting skills.