
'Big Brain' Gene Found in Humans, Not Chimps
A single gene that is found only in Homo species may partly explain why the human neocortex, the seat of higher cognitive functions, is so large.
Humans are unique creatures on the planet, though it wasn't always this way. Long ago, some bizarre human relatives, such as Nutcracker Man and a Homo species whose miniature bodies resembled the hobbits on Lord of the Rings, roamed Earth. Scientists are even finding evidence that modern humans crossed paths with some of our relatives, with fossils suggesting Homo sapiens may have had sex with Neanderthals and even a newly discovered species called the Denisovans. In news and features, we will cover human evolution and origins, revealing the mysteries of humanity, details on human ancestors and the evolutionary steps that led to modern humans.
Related Topics: DNA and Genes, Evolution, Fossils