Study reveals human brain cells have up to 15% more active genes than chimps', suggesting complex neural networks.

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have found that human brain cells are more specialized than those of chimpanzees, with up to 15% of genes showing higher activity levels. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights the role of gene expression in human brain evolution, particularly in glial cells that support neurons, indicating a more complex neural network in humans. This suggests that the unique features of the human brain are largely due to gene expression rather than genetic differences.

January 02, 2025
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