Transposable elements: human-specific gene regulation in the brain

The genetic basis for human cognition remains unknown. We hypothesize that some of this information lies hidden in transposable elements, which make up around 50% of the human genome. We will use novel stem cell approaches, which allow direct comparison of human, chimpanzee and orangutan brain development, in combination with advanced gene editing technology to investigate how transposable elements have contributed to the evolution of the
complex human brain. This research will lead to a better understanding of the genetic basis for human cognition and may in the long run lead to novel diagnostics and treatments for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.