Flinders University Scientists Argue Gut Nervous System Evolved Before the Brain

Researchers at Flinders University propose that the gut's nervous system may be the body's original brain, challenging the traditional view that the central brain evolved first. Published in The Journal of Physiology, the opinion piece suggests early organisms developed a gut nervous system to secure survival energy. This enteric nervous system operates independently with hundreds of millions of neurons to coordinate digestion. Senior author Nick Spencer notes this origin explains the gut's extensive regulatory influence. Lead author Dr. Tim Hibberd states this perspective could alter future research approaches for conditions like obesity, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease.

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