On Oct. 14, 2024, researchers have found a link between two human-specific genes and the gene SYNGAP1, a factor in intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.

These genes, SRGAP2B and SRGAP2C, slow down synapse development, a hallmark of prolonged brain growth thought to enhance learning in humans. By turning off these genes in human neurons, scientists observed accelerated brain connectivity development, mimicking changes seen in certain neurodevelopmental conditions.

This finding suggested that genes contributing to human brain evolution may also influence susceptibility to brain disorders.