Vertebrate Evolution and Movement

Abstract

Comparative studies of the brain in vertebrates suggest that there are general architectural principles leading to its development and overall improvement. We are beginning to understand the geometric, biophysical and energy constraints that have contributed to the progression and practical organization of the brain. The object of this review is to present current perspectives on primate brain evolution, and to examine some hypothetical organizing principles that underlie the brain's complex organization. It is shown that the development of the cortex coordinates folding with connectivity in a way that produces smaller and faster brains. It will be discussed that at a brain size of about 3500 cm3, equivalent to a brain that is two to three times larger than the modern man, the brain seems to reach its maximum processing capacity. As the brain grows larger than this particular size range, it becomes less proficient it will ultimately restrict any improvement and overall function.