Human Brain Still Evolving

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In summary, recent research in the field of evolutionary genetics has shown that two separate genes related to brain size have rapidly developed under selection in the past -37,000 years and -5300 years. This study, published in the current issue of Science, has major implications for further research in the field. Additional information can be found in the press release from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and links to articles by Bruce Lahn in various scientific journals.
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Breaking news; see this NY Times story. Two separate genes for brain size have been shown to have developed rapidly in recent times under selection, one since -37,000 (Cro-Magnon era), the other since only -5300 (neolithic, just before writing invented). The papers describing the research are in the current issue of Science.
 
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selfAdjoint said:
Breaking news; see this NY Times story. Two separate genes for brain size have been shown to have developed rapidly in recent times under selection, one since -37,000 (Cro-Magnon era), the other since only -5300 (neolithic, just before writing invented). The papers describing the research are in the current issue of Science.


great article! the work will have major repercussions and start a lot of other followup research I think

Here is a press release about this work from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and another HHMI link about Bruce Lahn


http://www.hhmi.org/news/lahn4.html

http://www.hhmi.org/research/investigators/lahn.html
 
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some more links:

http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/13/5/489
free download of complete Lahn ASPM article from Human Molecular Genetics
"Adaptive evolution of ASPM, a major determinant of cerebral cortical size in humans"

http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/13/11/1139
free download of complete Lahn Microcephalin article from Human Molecular Genetics
"Reconstructing the evolutionary history of microcephalin, a gene controlling human brain size."

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...list_uids=15620360&itool=iconabstr&query_hl=5
abstract of Lahn article

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...d&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16151009&query_hl=5
abstract of Lahn Microcephalin article in 9 Sept Science journal.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...d&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16151010&query_hl=5
abstract of Lahn ASPM article in 9 Sept Science
 

1. How do we know that the human brain is still evolving?

Scientists have gathered evidence from various sources such as genetic studies, fossil records, and brain imaging techniques to show that the human brain is still evolving. These studies have revealed changes in brain size, structure, and function over time, indicating that the human brain is still adapting to new environments and challenges.

2. What are some examples of recent evolutionary changes in the human brain?

One example is the expansion of the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions such as decision-making and problem-solving. This expansion has been linked to the development of complex social behaviors and the ability to adapt to changing environments.

3. How does the modern lifestyle impact the evolution of the human brain?

The modern lifestyle, characterized by technology, urbanization, and sedentary behavior, has led to changes in brain structure and function. For example, the use of technology has been associated with increased cognitive abilities such as multitasking and visual-spatial skills, while sedentary behavior has been linked to a decrease in brain volume and function.

4. Will the human brain continue to evolve in the future?

It is likely that the human brain will continue to evolve in response to environmental and social changes. However, the rate and direction of these changes are difficult to predict. Some scientists believe that certain traits, such as intelligence and social cognition, will continue to evolve, while others may become less relevant and eventually disappear.

5. Can humans control the evolution of their own brains?

While humans have some control over their environment and lifestyle, which can influence the evolution of their brains, they do not have direct control over the genetic changes that drive evolution. However, through advancements in technology and medicine, humans may be able to shape the future of their brain evolution to some extent.

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