# Neuroscience research on brain development and function

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/neuroscience-research-on-brain-development-and-function
> Updated: 2026-10-02T05:00:32.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Recent neuroscience research has identified that the human brain may consist of two distinct neural systems that evolved independently before merging. Studies indicate that the forebrain, which manages high-level functions like language and logic, and the hindbrain, which regulates autonomic survival functions such as breathing and heart rate, develop from different initial cell populations during early embryonic stages.

Specifically, the forebrain develops via cells expressing the Otx2 gene, while the hindbrain develops through cells expressing the Gbx2 gene. Additionally, research has mapped brain changes across the human lifespan, noting rapid reorganization during youth and a period of stability in the prefrontal cortex starting around age 24. A new phase of change is observed after age 60, involving increased activity in cells responsible for brain protection and protein management.

Further findings have linked the ERBB4 receptor protein to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists suggest that abnormal activation of this protein in excitatory neurons may disrupt the balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals, potentially triggering the loss of healthy connections before significant memory loss occurs.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Neuroscience research reveals dual brain origins and Alzheimer's triggers

Recent studies reveal the human brain may comprise two distinct evolutionary neural systems and identify the ERBB4 protein as a potential driver in the development of Alzheimer's disease.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/neuroscience-research-reveals-dual-brain-origins-and-alzheimers-triggers

### 2026-09-27: Neuroscience research reveals dual origins and developmental stages of the human brain

Recent studies reveal the human brain consists of two independently evolved systems and undergoes two major developmental shifts: a stabilization in the mid-20s and a new phase of cellular activity after age 60

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/neuroscience-research-reveals-dual-origins-and-developmental-stages-of-the-human-brain

---
Cite as: Neuroscience research on brain development and function. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/neuroscience-research-on-brain-development-and-function