Unveiling the Ancient Origins of Neurons: Thank This Blobby Animal
Placozoans, one of the simplest animal lineages, have been found to contain neuron-like cells, suggesting they may have served as the blueprint for the nervous systems of more complex animals, including humans. Researchers discovered 14 types of peptidergic cells in placozoans that are important for building neurons in other animals. These cells regulate behaviors through chemical signals and have genetic similarities to neurons in cnidarians and bilaterians. The findings support the idea that early nervous systems evolved as networks of cells connected through chemical signals before the development of electrical signaling. Further research on placozoans and other ancient animal lineages may provide insights into the evolution of nervous systems.