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evolution

·July 14, 2023·3 min read

Genetic Origins of Learning and Memory Traced Back 650 Million Years

Researchers have uncovered genes essential for learning, memory, aggression, and other complex behaviors originated around 650 million years ago. The study utilized computational methods to trace the evolutionary history of these genes involved in the production, modulation, and reception of monoamines like serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 27, 2023·4 min read

Orangutans Simultaneously Produce Dual Sounds: A Clue to Human Speech Evolution

Orangutans are capable of simultaneously producing two different sounds, akin to human beatboxers or songbirds. Through observations of vocalising orangutan populations in Borneo and Sumatra, researchers discovered this shared vocal phenomenon.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 17, 2023·6 min read

Adversity, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Evolution: The Reproductive Trade-off Theory

A new study examines the association of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with early life adversity and its potential influence on immediate reproductive strategies over somatic health. Using a sample of over 30,000 adults, the study finds that the risk of developing BPD was significantly influenced by a trade-off favoring immediate reproduction over long-term health.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 16, 2023·4 min read

Tracing the Evolutionary Roots of Cognitive Flexibility

A new study provides insights into the evolutionary origins of cognitive flexibility, an essential skill for adaptation and survival. Participants were studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while learning a sensorimotor task, the findings of which showed the importance of sensory brain regions in decision-making.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·May 8, 2023·5 min read

Neanderthal DNA Shapes Human Nose

A specific gene inherited from Neanderthals may be responsible for the shape of our noses. The researchers found the gene contributes to nasal height and may have been inherited from the ancient human ancestor to help humans adapt to colder climates as our ancestors moved out of Africa.

Featured Neuroscience

·April 26, 2023·4 min read

The Influence of Evolution on Brain Shape

The shape of the brain has developed in parallel with its function throughout the course of evolution. The study examined 3D surface models of the brains of 90 species of Euarchontoglires, allowing researchers to analyze the diversity of brain forms and their relationship to function, behavior and ecology.

Featured Neuroscience

·March 14, 2023·6 min read

Going Ape! Dizzy Apes Provide Clues on Human Need for Mind Altering Experiences

According to researchers, great apes spin themselves in order to make themselves dizzy. The dizzying behavior could shed new light on humans' drive to seek altered states of mind, and actively manipulate their mood and perception of reality.

This shows a scene of a book and a person walking with balloons

Featured Neuroscience

·March 13, 2023·6 min read

Imagination Makes Us Human

By considering brain areas associated with imagination, researchers are able to look back over millions of years to find out how imagination first evolved in humans.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·February 13, 2023·5 min read

Fructose Could Drive Alzheimer’s Disease

Fructose produced by the brain can lead to inflammation and ultimately Alzheimer's disease, a new study reports.

This shows a drawing of what the creature would have looked like

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·November 27, 2022·6 min read

525-Million-Year-Old Fossil Defies Textbook Explanation for Brain Evolution

The fossil of a 525-million-year-old tiny sea creature with a preserved nervous system may solve a century-long debate about how the brains of arthropods evolved.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·November 26, 2022·6 min read

What Octopus and Human Brains Have in Common

Octopuses have a massively expanded repertoire of miRNA in their neural tissue, reflecting a similar development to that which occurred in vertebrates. Findings suggest miRNA plays a significant role in the development of complex brains.