Human intelligence genetics of the brain
Do you know about human intelligence and genetics?
Early humans and Neanderthals had similar-sized brains but around 6 million years ago something happened that gave us the intellectual edge.
This programme is now available ON-Demand by visiting the Science in Action Page, it will be available until Thursday the 15th of September. It will also be broadcast on Sunday the 11th of September in Phuket at 9:00 AM on 91.5 FM and 102.5 FM and Online via the Internet radio portals.
Human intelligence and genes
The answer may lie in a tiny mutation in a single gene that meant more neurons could develop in a crucial part of the brain. Post-doctoral research scientist at the Max Plank Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Anneline Pinson, did the heavy lifting on the research under the supervision of Wieland Huttner.
They discuss with Roland how this finding offers a major development in our understanding of the evolutionary expansion of the all-important neocortex area of the brain.
A central aspect of what it is to be human and how we use our intelligence is to care for one another.
Borneo 10,000 years ago.
A burial site in Borneo from tens of thousands of years ago gives us fresh insights into how advanced our capacity to care was, millennia before the establishment of stable communities and agricultural life.
Remains uncovered by a team of archaeologists from Australia have found one of the first examples of complex medical surgery.
Finally, moving to a carbon-neutral society will involve developing huge battery potential, but that comes with its own environmental and social problems. Could a solution be found in the exoskeleton of crabs?
Presenter: Roland Pease Producer: Zak Brophy and Robbie Wojciechowski
(Image: Getty Images)
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