Scientists increase mouse intelligence with human cells

The human mind is always the subject of all kinds of study. The news is now focused on research that relates our brain to the cognitive abilities of animals. At least that is the focus of some scientists at the University of Rochester medical center.

These researchers injected cellular properties of the human brain - astrocytes, cells responsible for many events that distinguish us from other species - in mice to increase the cognitive ability of these little animals.

Results

Over time, it turns out that these cells were responsible for the attitudes of mice when trying to get out of a maze, presenting little difficulty and acting as if they had known the way for some time.

In addition, mice have become able to associate some types of sound quickly, which can increase their defense skills. This can be seen with the sound of electric shock, for example, now quickly recognized by mice.

And why all this? Well, according to scientists, these studies may help to better understand the human brain, so complex and yet full of mysteries. With a better understanding of how astrocytes work, it is simpler to understand some issues related to learning skills, for example, and of course to study diseases in which these cells are involved.