A recent study suggests that autism may be linked to how our brains evolved. Researchers found that a specific type of neuron in the human brain, called L2/3 IT neurons, changed more quickly than in other apes. Along with this, they noticed significant changes in genes related to autism.
These genetic shifts might have been beneficial for early humans, allowing for slower brain development and better language skills compared to our closest relatives. This evolution seems to have contributed not only to human intelligence but also to greater neurodiversity.
Key Takeaways
- Rapid Brain Evolution: The L2/3 IT neurons in humans have evolved significantly faster than those in other apes.
- Genetic Changes: Genes associated with autism have undergone unique changes in humans.
- Cognitive Balance: This genetic evolution may explain slower brain development and more complex language abilities, while also increasing neurodiversity.
About 1 in 31 children in the United States are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to recent data from the CDC. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates about 1 in 100 children are affected.
Interestingly, researchers found that similar behaviors linked to autism are rare in non-human primates. These behaviors often relate to complex cognitive skills like speech, which is far more advanced in humans.
The study utilized cutting-edge techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, enabling scientists to identify various neuron types in the brain. This advanced research revealed that while some brain cell types evolve slowly, others, like those related to autism, show rapid changes unique to humans.
Researchers examined data from several mammal species and noted that our L2/3 IT neurons have adapted remarkably fast. This accelerated evolution likely arose from natural selection, though the reasons for this remain unclear.
It’s thought that the genes linked to autism might have introduced developmental delays that could have helped human ancestors by allowing more time for cognitive skills to develop. The longer early brain growth allowed for enhanced problem-solving and communication skills, which were essential for survival.
As Alexander L. Starr, the lead author of the study, pointed out, “Some of the same genetic changes that make the human brain unique also made humans more neurodiverse.”
This study opens the door to understanding how our brains evolved and how conditions like autism fit into that picture. More research is needed to fully understand the complexities of brain evolution and neurodiversity.
For further information, you can refer to the original research published in Molecular Biology and Evolution.
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ASD,Autism,brain development,brain research,developmental neuroscience,evolution,evolutionary neuroscience,Genetics,neurobiology,neurodevelopment,Neuroscience,Oxford University Press USA,science
