Retroviruses Key to Evolution of Large Brains in Vertebrates, Study Finds

A groundbreaking study reveals that ancient retroviruses were instrumental in the development of myelin, enabling the evolution of complex brains and larger bodies in vertebrates.

Ancient viruses, specifically retroviruses, played a crucial role in the evolution of vertebrates, leading to the development of large brains and bodies.
The study identifies a gene sequence, dubbed 'RetroMyelin,' derived from retroviruses, as essential for the production of myelin, a substance that allows for faster nerve impulse conduction.
Myelin's appearance coincided with the evolution of jaws in ancient fish, marking a significant evolutionary milestone that enabled vertebrates to develop complex brains and larger bodies.
Research suggests that the retroviral infection occurred multiple times across different species, contributing to the diversity of vertebrates seen today.
Understanding the role of retroviruses in vertebrate evolution could offer new insights into the biological processes driving evolution and the development of complex brains.