Whole-genome duplications (WGDs) were important for the evolution of early vertebrate brain complexity and the resultant duplicated genes (ohnologues) continued to capacitate cell-type evolution long after they were formed.

How this affects you

This research provides a deeper understanding of how whole-genome duplication events in early vertebrate history contributed to the diversity and complexity of brain cell types seen in vertebrates today, including humans. This could inform future studies on neurological development and disease.