General · 1 September 2026

Human-only gene slows brain cell growth, boosting our unique intelligence

Scientists think our brains' powerful cognitive abilities come partly from immune cells called microglia taking years to mature. A human-specific gene, SRGAP2, dramatically slows this development, meaning human microglia require four to eight years to mature. This unusually long development may coordinate with neurons to build denser, stronger brain connections.

By BriefTea Editorial · 1 September 2026 at 10:43

Reported by sciencedaily.com · How we write briefs

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What makes human brains special? Who studies our brains? Why do cells need time?

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