EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·23d ago·5 min read
Human brain is two separate organs, Stanford Medicine-led research finds
TL;DR
Stanford Medicine's research reveals that the human brain consists of two distinct organs, challenging the long-held belief of a single developmental origin. This finding could enhance our understanding of brain diseases and improve laboratory growth of specific brain cells.
✦ Why It Matters
Consider exploring new methods for studying hindbrain neurons in your research.
Key Takeaways
- Investigate the role of hindbrain neurons in disease research.
- Utilize human pluripotent stem cells for neuron generation.
- Focus on early embryonic development stages for insights.
- Consider evolutionary perspectives in neurological studies.
How It Works
The research identified two progenitor cells: one for the forebrain and midbrain, marked by the Otx2 gene, and another for the hindbrain, marked by the Gbx2 gene. These cells follow parallel developmental paths, which explains why previous attempts to convert forebrain cells into hindbrain neurons were unsuccessful.
By understanding these distinct pathways, researchers successfully coaxed human pluripotent stem cells into functional hindbrain motor neurons.