Chinese and French Scientists Unravel the Neural Origins of Consciousness

The research might shed light on how this specific part of the brain contributes to cognitive processes like integrating memories and engaging in abstract thought, according to the study.

Chinese and French researchers have created a highly intricate map of the crab-eating macaque’s claustrum, a poorly understood part of the brain thought to be involved in consciousness.

A comprehensive map detailing the connections between nerve cells in the macaque claustrum and the broader brain may aid our understanding of how this area and its various cell types contribute to overall function. cognitive functions , like integrating memories and engaging in abstract thought.

The team highlighted notable distinctions in both the architecture and cellular composition of the claustra in macaques and rodents. This discovery might offer insights into understanding how consciousness has evolved from an anatomical perspective.

Are you curious about the most significant issues and global trends? Find out here. SCMP Knowledge Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our esteemed team of experts.

The team stated in a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal "Cell" on April 3rd that they have created "a comprehensive spatial transcriptome atlas at the single-cell level for the macaque claustrum as well as an entire brain connectivity map."

The claustrum is a narrow layer of neurons—nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals throughout the body—and glial cells within the brain. It connects with both the cerebral cortex and various subcortical areas such as the hippocampus.

Studies of this particular area have shown that it is involved in various brain processes including managing sleep patterns, dealing with depression, modulating behavioral responses, exerting cognitive control, and facilitating awareness.

Currently, there isn't a unified scientific understanding of how consciousness arises or why human awareness varies from that of other species, although this capability must stem from certain processes within the brain.

Although the claustrum is recognized for coordinating various brain activities through its extensive connections with multiple regions of the brain, its molecular and cellular structure remains inadequately explored.

Researchers affiliated with BGI-Research, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and Claude Bernard University Lyon 1 in France have mapped out over 227,000 neurons within the claustrum region taken from the brains of crab-eating macaques, which are often referred to as cynomolgus monkeys.

By analysing RNA , or the molecules that convey instructions from DNA for protein synthesis, they constructed a transcriptome atlas offering insights into actively functioning genes.

The comprehensive study carried out by the team resulted in multiple findings concerning the macaque claustrum. They identified 48 different cell types as well as four separate neuron zones that selectively link to particular areas of the brain.

It was established that regional zones within the claustrum link up with cortex-related and sub-cortex-connected brain regions according to their functions. This indicates that particular groups of claustral neurons specialize in processing various kinds of information.

The researchers discovered that the neurons within the macaque claustrum closely resemble those in the insular cortex. This similarity indicates that one primary function of the claustrum might be serving as a central node for managing and integrating information flow throughout the brain.

In their comparison of the claustrom between macaques, marmosets, and mice, researchers discovered cell types exclusive to macaques. This finding indicates that over time, as part of evolution, the macaque claustrom evolved specialized cells tailored for particular neurological tasks. Such insights could help us understand how distinctive physiological changes play a role in developing awareness.

The team stated in the paper, "Collectively, these discoveries indicate that various species have distinct adaptations within the claustrum."

BGI stated that these discoveries might pave the way for exploring the development of cognition and consciousness in primates, potentially providing insights into how human consciousness evolved.

The organization suggested this could hold potential for enhancing our understanding of neurological conditions and might aid in formulating treatment approaches to adjust cognitive functions.

The team indicated that additional research on the macaque claustrum was necessary, owing to potential limitations in their approach to categorizing cell types and neural connections.

The complete dataset regarding the macaque claustrum created by the research group is now accessible online for public use.

More Articles from SCMP

Ben Thompson considers Fallon and "All’s Well" as strong contenders at Happy Valley.

China’s human-like robot industry moves into large-scale production with Unitree and AgiBot leading the way.

Hong Kong's MTR Corp suggests a 9.4% rise in fares for the Airport Express.

China’s key metal exports have dropped sharply due to the impact of trade restrictions taking hold.

The article initially appeared on the South ChinaMorning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.

Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.