First gene map of the human brain shows all our squidgy think-boxes to be 94% similar

The first comprehensive gene mapping of the human brain has been carried out by the The Allen Institute for Brain Science, showing that our think-boxes are far more similar than anyone first thought.

Working with two normal adult brains, the team discovered that there is a 94% similarity in the bio-chemistry of human brains, which could potentially lead to great advances in the treatment of degenerative brain diseases. The team also found that 82% of all human genes can be found within the brain, further highlighting just how complex an organ it is.

“Until now, a definitive map of the human brain, at this level of detail, simply hasn’t existed,” said Allan Jones, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of the Allen Institute for Brain Science. “The Allen Human Brain Atlas provides never-before-seen views into our most complex and most important organ. Understanding how our genes are used in our brains will help scientists and the medical community better understand and discover new treatments for the full spectrum of brain diseases and disorders, from mental illness and drug addiction, to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, multiple sclerosis, autism and more.”

For more info, visit www.brain-map.org.