Traces of phylogeny and ecology in hippocampal neuron numbers.

ABSTRACT: It is not known how selective pressures shape the numbers of interconnected neurons in defined neural circuits during the phylogeny of mammals. Consequently, models of function are without phylogenetic bounds, and species differences in neuronal makeup cannot be linked to ecological factors that generate selective pressures. Based on data from 65 species belonging to 11 orders, we here provide an analysis of five interconnected neuron populations in the circuitry of the hippocampus, the forebrain region encoding episodic memories. Related species tend to share traits in the hippocampal makeup, with distinct differences between clades. Phylogenetic signals result in the clustering of related species according to relative neuron numbers, but signal strengths allow the clusters to overlap. Tr

SUBMITTER: Malikovic J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12398207 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature