Stanford: (RightNow). A new study reveals that the human brain may consist of two distinct neural systems. According to the research, these systems form from different cellular groups during the embryonic stage.

Led by Stanford Medicine, this study was published in Nature Neuroscience. Scientists discovered that the brain’s anterior and posterior parts develop from separate early cells during embryonic growth.

The study indicates that the OTX2 gene forms the brain’s anterior part, while the GBX2 gene is responsible for the posterior part. The posterior brain controls vital body functions.

Scientists observed electrical activity in lab-grown neural cells, offering a new model for studying brainstem diseases.

It is noteworthy that this research could aid in studying treatments for spinal muscular atrophy and ALS-like diseases.