A Closer Look to the Evolution of Neurons in Humans and Apes Using Stem-Cell-Derived Model Systems

The cellular, molecular and functional comparison of neurons from closely related species is crucial in evolutionary neurobiology. The access to living tissue and post-mortem brains of humans and non-human primates is limited and the state of the tissue might not allow recapitulating important species-specific differences. A valid alternative is offered by neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) obtained from humans and non-human apes and primates. We will review herein the contribution of iPSCs-derived neuronal models to the field of evolutionary neurobiology, focusing on species-specific aspects of neuron’s cell biology and timing of maturation. In addition, we will discuss the use of iPSCs for the study of ancient human traits.