Core Insights - The article discusses the significant differences in phenotypic traits between modern humans and their close relatives, such as gorillas, primarily attributed to the expansion of the neocortex and increased complexity of neuronal connections [1][3] - It highlights the role of specific gene expansions unique to humans that contribute to brain evolution, particularly focusing on the GPR89B and FRMPD2B genes [3][10] Gene Expansion and Brain Evolution - A study published in the journal Cell identifies human-specific gene expansions that contribute to brain evolution, with GPR89B promoting brain volume expansion and FRMPD2B regulating synaptic signaling complexity [2][3][7] - The research utilized the T2T-CHM13 genome, which successfully assembled previously unsequenced regions of the human genome, including critical areas like telomeres and centromeres [5][10] Identification of Unique Gene Families - The research team identified 213 human-specific gene families and 362 paralogous genes that are primary candidates for shaping universal human brain characteristics [6][10] - Among these, 1,002 paralogous genes were identified in the T2T-CHM13 genome, with 148 gene families potentially driving human brain evolution [10]