“Mini brains” resembling Neanderthals have been created in the lab using CRISPR technology. These small organs, containing an ancient version of a gene that affects brain development, have a smaller and rougher size than those with human genes. These findings were published in the journal Science on February 11 and could help scientists understand the genetic pathways that allowed the human brain to evolve.
Creation of Mini Brains Resembling Neanderthals
Researchers have created small brain-like organs containing a version of a gene found in Neanderthals and Denisovans. These tissues were produced using human stem cell engineering technology, and although they are not a true representation of the brains of these species, they exhibit distinct differences from human organs, including size, shape, and texture.
Impact on Brain Development
This study is important for understanding the genetic pathways that allowed the human brain to evolve. By understanding the differences between the small organs that contain Neanderthal genes and Denisovan genes and those that contain human genes, scientists can uncover the factors that contributed to the evolution of the human brain over time.
Potential Applications
These findings may help advance our understanding of diseases related to brain development and lead to new treatments. Understanding the genes that influence brain development may enable us to develop new methods for treating brain-related diseases such as autism and dementia.
Conclusion
The creation of “mini brains” resembling Neanderthals in the lab using CRISPR technology is an important breakthrough in understanding human brain evolution. These small organs may help identify the genetic factors that contributed to brain development over time and lead to new treatments for brain-related diseases.
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