So what is it that makes octopuses have this complex nervous system? A report published in Science Advances reveals that it comes down to an extensive reserve of microRNA (miRNA), coding genes that deliver messages that influence protein production in cells. In humans, miRNAs are linked to cell functions and the development of the central nervous system, according to a report published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS).
Octopuses are the only invertebrates that have these kinds of cells, and in a way it makes sense. At least it does to Professor Nikolaus Rajewsky, Scientific Director of the Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology of the Max Delbrück Center and co-author of the report. He explains that these cells might be responsible for developing more complex brains, and as a result, intelligence. Lead author Grygoriy Zolotarov agrees, noting that other mollusks and oysters, which don't have miRNA, aren't known for being as smart as octopuses.
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