Genes Associated with Complex Behavioral Reactions Originated Around 650 Million Years Ago, Influencing the Cambrian Explosion
Scientists have discovered that genes associated with complex behavioral reactions, such as training and aggression, appeared approximately 650 million years ago. This finding could provide insights into the origins of various complex behavioral reactions seen in animals, including humans.
A team of scientists led by researchers from the University of Leicester has determined that the genes responsible for training, memory, aggression, and other complex behavioral reactions emerged around 650 million years ago. The study, conducted by Dr. Roberto Feuda from the Department of Genetics and Genomic Biology in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Leicester and the University of Friburg (Switzerland), was recently published in the journal Nature Communications.
Dr. Feuda explained, “We have long known that monoamines, such as serotonin, dopamine, and adrenaline, act as neuromodulators in the nervous system, playing a role in complex behaviors and functions, including training, memory, sleep, and nutrition. However, the origins of the genes responsible for the production and regulation of these monoamines have been uncertain. Through computational methods, we reconstructed the evolutionary history of these genes and found that most genes involved in the production, modulation, and perception of monoamines originated in the Bilateral stem group.”
The authors propose that this novel form of neural modulation may have played a role in the Cambrian explosion, which led to the remarkable diversification of life in basic animal groups that still exist today. It provided the neural flexibility necessary for interactions with the environment.
Dr. Feuda further stated, “This discovery will pave the way for important future research, shedding light on the origins of complex behavioral reactions and determining whether the same neurons modulate reward, addiction, aggression, nutrition, and sleep.”