Expression of human-specific gene ARHGAP11B in the developing ferret neocortex leads to an increase in abundance of neural progenitor cells, which results in neocortex expansion.

Transcriptomic and genomic analysis provides a resource of 50 primate-specific genes preferentially expressed in neural progenitors of fetal human neocortex, 15 of which are specific to humans.

Glutamate derived from thalamo-cortical axons regulates the radial dispersion of interneurons in the developing mouse neocortex by limiting the level of expression of the K/Cl co-transporter KCC2.

Subtypes of dendrite-targeting somatostatin cells segregate into separate networks by specifically connecting with neurons in different layers, forming circuits that could independently control different input pathways to the neocortex.

During the second postnatal week, a temporary circuit made up of specific types of neurons plus the precursors of oligodendrocytes is established in the brain, and may promote the maturation of oligodendrocytes in preparation for myelination.

Snap-freezing of brain tissue reveals its true structure-showing that cells are less squashed together, and the connections between neurons are less enclosed than previously thought.

Aberrant ERK/MAPK signaling in cortical pyramidal neurons leads to selective disruption of layer 5 circuit development and generalized changes in neuronal excitability.

Two major subtypes of cortical interneurons, the PV and the SST positive cells, causally contribute to the regulation of large-scale state transitions in the cortex.

Genome-wide transcriptional profiling and genetic analyses reveal conserved mechanisms underlying the generation of neocortical basal radial glia and cerebellar Bergmann glia.