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NewsSlow neural stem cells explain the marmoset's smooth brain. Researchers at Germany's Primate Center used brain organoids to show that marmoset neural progenitor cells divide more slowly, have simpler structures, and have a shorter proliferative window than human counterparts — all resulting in fewer neurons and a smaller, unfolded brain. The findings could sharpen our understanding of human brain developmental disorders.
Most primates sport a wrinkled, folded brain — those grooves and ridges dramatically expand surface area and pack in billions of neurons. Common marmosets, however, are the odd ones out: their brains are smooth and nearly unfolded. Researchers at the German Primate Center (DPZ) wanted to know why, and their new findings published in Science Advances point to key differences in how neural progenitor cells behave during embryonic development.
Using brain organoids from both marmosets and humans, the team found that marmoset progenitor cells divide significantly more slowly, have simpler physical structures with fewer processes, and operate within a shorter overall proliferative window. Together, these factors reduce the total number of neurons produced — leading to a smaller, less-folded cortex.
Key Takeaways:
Why it matters: Understanding why some primate brains fold less could illuminate the cellular mechanisms behind human brain development — and potentially shed light on conditions like lissencephaly and other cortical malformation disorders.
