Human has the biggest brain compared to the body size in all mammals. In general, having bigger brain or smaller brain are pathogenic, thus brain size matters. In this project, we will focus on neocortex, a brain region responsible for our higher cognitive ability, and study how the neocortex is developed, evolved and what is the consequence of abnormal neocortical development. Our recent studies showed that human neural stem cells acquired a characteristic cell metabolism during evolution. Therefore, it raises a possibility that abnormality in neural stem cell metabolism, which has been adapted during human evolution, causes neurodevelopmental disorders. To date, no systematic study has sought this possibility and, therefore, this project aims to address this question.This project will provide a novel idea about an etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders, which finally leads the development of diagnostic tools, improved treatments and preventive care.

2025

2029