---
title: "Human brain develops from two distinct cell populations, study finds"
publication: "MediaBias News"
url: "https://mediabias.news/tech/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds"
api: "https://mediabias.news/api/v1/stories/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds"
markdown: "https://mediabias.news/tech/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds.md"
audio: "https://mediabias.news/api/audio/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds"
category: "Science & Tech"
published: "2026-09-22T17:45:41.591Z"
source_reported: "2026-09-22T16:51:59.994Z"
updated: "2026-09-22T17:45:41.591Z"
trust_score: 50
critic_score: 65
hype_score: 45
assessment_type: "coverage-and-source-reporting-analysis"
fact_check_status: "not-performed"
coverage_measured: "2026-09-22T18:45:07.859368+00:00"
---

# Human brain develops from two distinct cell populations, study finds

*Stanford University researchers identified separate origins for forebrain and hindbrain, with implications for disease research.*

**Scores for the source reporting** (0-100, assessing the original journalism this article was written from, not this write-up): 

- Trust 50 of 100, higher is better. The central claim is attributed to Stanford University researchers and supported by two full reports and multiple digests.
- Craft 65 of 100, higher is better. The reporting clearly separates fact from comment and provides specific details about the study's findings and implications.
- Hype 45 of 100, lower is better. Headlines use strong declarative statements about the brain being two organs, which is a simplification of the research.

Scored by MediaBias News; method at https://mediabias.news/methodology.

**The short version**

- The human brain develops from two distinct progenitor cell populations, according to Stanford University researchers.
- The hindbrain controls automatic functions like breathing and heartbeat, while the forebrain and midbrain handle higher-level abilities.
- Researchers successfully grew functional hindbrain motor neurons in the lab for the first time.
- The same two-origin pattern was observed in chickens, zebrafish, and acorn worms, suggesting an evolutionary basis.

Scientists at Stanford University have discovered that the human brain originates from two separate populations of progenitor cells. This finding suggests that the brain evolved from two distinct nervous systems that merged over time. The hindbrain is responsible for automatic functions such as breathing and heartbeat, while the forebrain and midbrain manage higher-level cognitive abilities like language and reasoning.

Researchers were able to grow functional hindbrain motor neurons in a laboratory setting for the first time, a feat previously hindered by a lack of understanding of hindbrain development. The study also examined evolutionary history, finding the same two-origin pattern in chickens, zebrafish, and acorn worms, indicating a deep evolutionary root for this developmental process.

## Disagreement on evolutionary history

While the Stanford University study suggests the brain evolved from two existing neural systems that were pushed together, the PerthNow report states that these were once separate systems that were eventually brought together through evolution. The Boing Boing report notes that the researchers' findings suggest evolution took two existing neural systems and pushed them together spatially.

## Omissions in coverage

None of the right-rated digests mention the successful laboratory growth of functional hindbrain motor neurons. Similarly, none of the right-rated digests detail the study's findings in chickens, zebrafish, and acorn worms, or the evolutionary implications of this discovery.

## Who covered it

Shares of the 81 covering outlets with a published leaning rating:

- Left: 21% (17)
- Centre: 48% (39)
- Right: 31% (25)

63 of 144 covering outlets carried no usable leaning rating and were excluded from those percentages. Coverage measured 2026-09-22T18:45:07.859368+00:00.

**Coverage watch:** developing. Checked 6 times; 0 checks found a material change. Most recently checked 2026-09-22T19:30:09.626Z.

## How the sides framed it

### Left

- Left-rated reports led on the discovery that the human brain develops from two distinct early cell groups, functioning like adjacent systems. These reports highlighted that the Stanford University breakthrough could open new avenues for research into fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Several left-rated outlets noted the success in growing functional hindbrain motor neurons in the laboratory for the first time, a significant step for studying conditions like ALS and SMA.

### Centre

- Centre-rated reports focused on the finding that the human brain consists of two separate nervous systems that merged during evolution. These reports highlighted that the hindbrain controls vital automatic functions like breathing and heartbeat, while the forebrain and midbrain handle higher-level abilities. The potential implications for studying and treating diseases affecting the brain and nervous system were also a common theme.

### Right

- Right-rated reports highlighted that the more primitive part of the brain regulates functions like breathing and keeping our heart beating. These reports stated that researchers say the human brain is actually two separate organs. The discovery that the hindbrain controls automatic functions was a consistent point across these outlets.

## Factuality profile of the covering outlets

These are published factuality ratings of the outlets, not a verdict on whether this story or its claims are true.

- veryLow: 1
- low: 1
- mixed: 13
- high: 43
- unknown: 59
- veryHigh: 27

## Verification scope

This page compares coverage and scores the source reporting. It is not a ClaimReview verdict on whether the underlying event or claim is true.

## Original reporting this was written from

- [Independent Español](https://independentespanol.com/noticias/ciencia/cerebro-dos-organos-universidad-stanford-descubrimiento-b3054481.html) — Scientists Discovered that the Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs
- [LiFO](https://lifo.gr/now/tech-science/epistimones-anakalypsan-oti-o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-stin) — Scientists Have Discovered that the Human Brain Is Actually Made up of Two Separate Organs
- [NDTV](https://ndtv.com/health/did-two-nervous-systems-merge-to-create-the-human-brain-new-stanford-study-says-yes-12083006) — Did Two Nervous Systems Merge To Create The Human Brain? New Stanford Study Says Yes
- [Famiboards](https://famiboards.com/threads/human-brain-is-two-separate-organs-stanford-medicine-led-research-finds.18773) — Human brain is two separate organs, Stanford Medicine-led research finds
- [Smithsonian Mag](https://smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/scientists-say-the-human-brain-might-be-made-of-two-distinct-nervous-systems-that-got-squished-together-180989539) — Scientists Say the Human Brain Might Be Made of Two Distinct Nervous Systems That Got Squished Together
- [Webtekno](https://webtekno.com/insan-beyni-aslinda-2-organmis-arastirma-h225218.html) — The Human Brain Is Actually Two Separate Organs!
- [Indian Express](https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/stanford-study-brain-two-different-organs-improve-research-10888995) — ‘The brain is two organs’: What Stanford scientists discovered about how it develops
- [Numerama](https://numerama.com/sciences/2337303-le-cerveau-serait-deux-organes-pas-un-seul-selon-une-etude-de-luniversite-stanford.html) — The Brain Would Be Two Organs, Not One, According to a Study by Stanford University.
- [PerthNow](https://perthnow.com.au/news/world/the-human-brain-is-two-separate-organs-c-22911560) — The human brain is two separate organs
- [antena3.ro](https://antena3.ro/life/stiinta/descoperire-surprinzatoare-despre-creierul-uman-ar-fi-format-de-fapt-din-doua-organe-diferite-804164.html) — Surprising Discovery of the Human Brain: It Would, in Fact, Have Formed From Two Different Organs
- [Stirile Antena 1 Observator](https://observatornews.ro/stiinta/o-descoperire-despre-creierul-uman-schimba-ce-stiam-despre-evolutia-lui-ar-avea-doua-origini-distincte-666901.html) — A Discovery of the Human Brain Changes What We Knew About Its Evolution. It Would Have Two Distinct Origins.
- [fakti.bg](https://fakti.bg/life/1082812-ucheni-otkriha-che-choveshkiat-mozak-se-razviva-ot-dve-razlichni-kletachni-linii) — Scientists Discover that the Human Brain Develops From Two Different Cell Lines
- [Eesti Rahvusringhääling](https://novaator.err.ee/1610144737/teadlaste-vaitel-on-ajus-hoopis-kaks-erinevat-narvisusteemi) — Scientists Say the Brain Actually Has Two Different Nervous Systems
- [NEWSru.co.il](https://newsru.co.il/science_hitech/22sep2026/brain_121.html) — Scientists Have Learned that the Brain Is Formed From Two Independent Parts
- [techgear.gr](https://techgear.gr/ereyna-toy-stanford-anatrepei-ti-viologia-o-anthropinos-egkefalos-einai-dyo-diaforetika-organa-50611) — Stanford Research Overturns Biology: The Human Brain Is Two Different Organs!
- [The Independent](https://independent.co.uk/news/science/brain-two-organs-stanford-university-breakthrough-b3053955.html) — Human brain is actually two separate organs, scientists find
- [The Independent (US)](https://the-independent.com/news/science/brain-two-organs-stanford-university-breakthrough-b3053955.html) — Human brain is actually two separate organs, scientists find
- [Western Morning News](https://westernmorning.news/2026/09/22/human-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs-scientists-find-2) — Human brain is actually two separate organs, scientists find
- [Boing Boing](https://boingboing.net/2026/09/21/fountain-pen-brain-two-organs.html) — Scientists say the human brain is two different organs
- [Remolacha - Noticias Republica Dominicana](https://remolacha.net/2026/09/cerebro-humano) — The Human Brain Is Not One, but Two Organs.
- [puterea.ro](https://puterea.ro/creierul-uman-are-doua-organe-la-unii-politicieni-evolutia-pare-sa-fi-lasat-lucrarea-neterminata) — The Human Brain Has Two "Organs"
- [People](https://people.com/scientists-discover-human-brain-might-be-2-separate-organs-12133929) — Scientists Discover Humans May Actually Have 2 Brains Rather Than 1
- [Watauga Democrat](https://wataugademocrat.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_693780d8-c7d6-5144-9f53-4a97dab46e1c.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Indiana Gazette Online](https://indianagazette.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_c88e0ad3-237b-5430-833d-66ac09505f9c.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [El Paso Inc.](https://elpasoinc.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_442b2a3e-1918-5141-9c40-77a43ec40978.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Daily Post-Athenian](https://dailypostathenian.com/news/national/article_e3101487-0a8e-53d3-a43d-6c1eb310d892.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [InsideNoVA.com](https://insidenova.com/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_1be0dbec-665c-5d94-abc5-657c0bcbc8c9.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Columbia Gorge News](https://columbiagorgenews.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_606042a1-19de-5c25-acf7-6166fecf946c.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [KAKE News](https://kake.com/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_3772e81d-4a24-54b8-a842-a9f8c70fb620.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [KPVI](https://kpvi.com/interests/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_4a375758-9b57-54f2-8ff5-8cb83878d643.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [NE Iowa Publishing](https://communitynewspapergroup.com/news/nation/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_2707d5de-c4b1-5ebf-bc3f-040034fe6fb2.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Herald Palladium](https://heraldpalladium.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_09584396-33a5-5877-a4ac-bcef087d8600.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Elkhart Truth](https://elkharttruth.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_3d5d6124-570d-5964-ba20-35bf9c69fd8f.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Webster County Citizen](https://webstercountycitizen.com/news/national/article_77a44aae-ff92-5ff2-82ac-b8cc0ef95eb3.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Mountain Press](https://themountainpress.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_6faf90ec-f8d6-52fa-8191-3ca040ff9f02.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Laconia Daily Sun](https://laconiadailysun.com/around_the_web/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_a0cfa9fa-aac9-5841-8a16-837a9579afdb.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Sanford Herald](https://sanfordherald.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_a94f4539-bf34-5b6b-af8e-6a9f96b36161.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Chronicle-Tribune](https://chronicle-tribune.com/news/wire/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_1447b028-ae2c-5d63-8f32-4f8a39467963.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Leader Publications](https://myleaderpaper.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_b877013f-7cf5-5372-afa3-55b90fa765af.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Daily Courier](https://thedigitalcourier.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_9b10c38e-9411-5706-ac94-20e00187366d.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel](https://gjsentinel.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_65ea5a33-62c1-542b-b2fc-aebdd862259c.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Pacific Daily News](https://guampdn.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_f3b85e56-1596-577c-98d1-281e31b40ca4.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [News-Graphic.com](https://news-graphic.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_f3088977-1e54-5239-a708-10c26a76c0c6.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Rochester Sentinel](https://rochsent.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_42ec9320-9485-588d-b420-b6ba59b194bc.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [http://www.wfxg.com](https://wfxg.com/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_999fb76a-2719-57f4-906f-a520703dd577.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Key West Citizen](https://keysnews.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_b820f4ad-5e9d-55e9-a804-2557acc26591.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Conway Daily Sun](https://conwaydailysun.com/around_the_web/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_4870f784-2e2f-5a5f-b298-87f4e3a8bd73.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [hazard-herald.com](https://hazard-herald.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_7139afc8-a6f9-5f04-b154-01cc5451a03d.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Purdue Exponent](https://purdueexponent.org/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_f00e7628-d8e3-5719-889e-461662c1935f.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Times](https://thetimes.com/uk/science/article/brain-made-of-two-distinct-organs-study-finds-pbw3glgs8) — Brain made up of two distinct organs evolving independently
- [Delaware Business Now](https://delawarebusinessnow.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_6a89fe20-23de-5f69-b431-9d86b564ccf0.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Guam Daily Post](https://postguam.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_b26f911f-86a3-55bc-a448-c0386917506a.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [The Courier-Times](https://thecouriertimes.com/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_b915a520-82e4-54dd-bd4b-75a16ff91026.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [iosconews.com](https://iosconews.com/news/nation/article_6563ab38-a727-57d5-8b96-952632b11894.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [Ashley County Ledger](https://ashleycountyledger.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_c90ba2a0-f62d-5229-af5d-5a76604782b6.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [gonzagabulletin.com](https://gonzagabulletin.com/news/national/scientists-discover-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs/article_d218c403-d1e1-50b7-a1a4-cea454ff646f.html) — Scientists discover brain is actually two separate organs
- [iatronet.gr](https://iatronet.gr/article/142953/o-egkefalos-einai-dyo-diaforetika-organa-meleth) — The Brain Is Two Different Organs
- [themondonews.com](https://themondonews.com/science/research-shows-human-brain-is-fusion-of-two-organs) — Research shows human brain is fusion of two organs
- [sci.news](https://sci.news/othersciences/neuroscience/human-brain-two-organs-15078.html) — Human Brain is Two Organs Fused Together, Study Suggests
- [Science Daily](https://sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/09/260920222352.htm) — Stanford scientists discover the human brain may actually be two separate organs
- [awazthevoice.in](https://awazthevoice.in/health-news/study-suggests-human-brain-may-have-evolved-as-two-independent-organs-68080.html) — Study suggests human brain may have evolved as two independent organs
- [rediff.com](https://rediff.com/news/report/human-brain-evolved-as-two-independent-organs-study-suggests/20260921.htm) — New Study Suggests Brain Developed From Two Separate Systems
- [winfuture.de](https://winfuture.de/news,161416.html) — Breakthrough in Research: Our Brains Are Actually Two Organs
- [News-Medical.net](https://azolifesciences.com/news/20260921/Breakthrough-Study-Explains-Developmental-Origins-of-the-Human-Brain.aspx) — Breakthrough Study Explains Developmental Origins of the Human Brain
- [Telegraf – Najnovije vesti](https://nauka.telegraf.rs/medicina/4400330-sokantno-otkrice-naucnika-sa-stanforda-mozak-nije-jedan-jedinstveni-organ-nastaje-iz-dve-maticne-celije) — Shocking Discovery of Scientists From Stanford: The Brain Is Not a Unique Organ! It Originates From Two Stem Cells
- [onliner.by](https://tech.onliner.by/2026/09/21/mozg-dva-organa) — Scientists Have Learned Something Amazing About the Human Brain-- Onlíner Technology.
- [AsiaOne News, AsiaOne Latest News, AsiaOne Magazine India |](https://asiaone.co.in/stanford-study-reveals-two-cell-origin-of-human-brain-development) — Stanford Study Reveals Two Cell Origin of Human Brain Development
- [WebProNews](https://webpronews.com/stanford-researchers-reveal-the-brain-as-two-ancient-systems-packed-into-one-skull) — Stanford Researchers Reveal the Brain as Two Ancient Systems Packed Into One Skull
- [alfavita.gr](https://alfavita.gr/koinonia/560923_o-egkefalos-os-syntheto-organo) — The Brain as a "Complex Organ"
- [Slashdot](https://science.slashdot.org/story/26/09/20/0451204/the-brain-is-actually-two-completely-separate-organs) — The Brain Is Actually Two Completely Separate Organs
- [Unknown](https://aboluowang.com/2026/0920/2435925.html) — The Brain Is Composed of Two Organs: a Startling Discovery by Stanford University.
- [RTVI](https://rtvi.com/news/evolyucziya-svela-ih-vmeste-mozg-cheloveka-mog-vozniknut-iz-dvuh-raznyh-nervnyh-sistem) — Evolution Brought Them Together: the Human Brain Could Come From Two Different Nervous Systems.
- [e-thessalia.gr](https://e-thessalia.gr/epistimones-sto-stanford-katarriptoyn-theoria-aionon-gia-ton-anthropino-egkefalo) — Stanford Scientists Debunk Centuries-Old Theory About the Human Brain
- [Unknown](https://digiato.com/interdisciplinary/human-brain-two-separate-organs-stanford-discovery) — Researchers' Surprising Discovery: The Human Brain Evolved From Two Independent Organs
- [ARY News](https://arynews.tv/human-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs-stanford-study-reveals) — Stanford study reveals human brain is actually two separate organs
- [anlatilaninotesi.com.tr](https://anlatilaninotesi.com.tr/20260919/bilim-insanlari-insan-beyni-aslinda-iki-ayri-organdan-olusuyor-1108877876.html) — Scientists Say the Human Brain Is Actually Made up of Two Separate Organs.
- [FuturoProssimo](https://futuroprossimo.it/2026/09/il-cervello-non-e-uno-sono-2-organi-cuciti-insieme-dallevoluzione) — The Brain Is Not One: They Are 2 Organs Sewn Together by Evolution
- [Pro Pakistani](https://propakistani.pk/2026/09/19/study-suggests-the-human-brain-evolved-as-two-separate-organs) — Study Suggests the Human Brain Evolved as Two Separate Organs
- [indyturk.com](https://indyturk.com/node/782693) — Groundbreaking Discovery: The Human Brain Is Actually Two Separate Organs.
- [BNR Nieuwsradio](https://bnr.nl/nieuws/lifestyle/10610704/hersenen-moeten-we-zien-als-twee-organen-ontdekking-kan-helpen-bij-als-onderzoek) — ‘We Must View the Brain as Two Organs’; Discovery Could Aid ALS Research
- [Tech Explorist](https://techexplorist.com/human-brain-actually-two-separate-organs/104309) — The human brain is actually two separate organs, study
- [Mehr News Agency](https://mehrnews.com/news/6951147/%DA%A9%D8%B4%D9%81-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%85%DB%8C-%D8%AC%D8%AF%DB%8C%D8%AF-%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B2-%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%B3%D8%A7%D9%86-%DB%B2-%D8%B9%D8%B6%D9%88-%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%A7%DA%AF%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%87-%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AA) — New Scientific Discovery: The Human Brain Is Two Separate Organs!
- [Naftemporiki](https://naftemporiki.gr/techscience/2163821/o-anthropinos-egkefalos-einai-telika-dyo-xechorista-organa) — The Human Brain Is Ultimately Two Separate Organs
- [Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/wellness/not-one-but-two-stanford-university-scientists-find-the-brain-is-two-separate-organs/articleshow/134348588.cms) — Not one, but two? Stanford University scientists find the brain is two separate organs
- [Irish Independent](https://independent.ie/world-news/brain-is-two-separate-organs-cleverly-packaged-together-scientists-find/a/161660534.html) — Brain is two separate organs ‘cleverly packaged together’, scientists find
- [dnews.gr](https://dnews.gr/eidhseis/ygeia/611074/o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dyo-ksexorista-organa-symfona-me-erevnites-tou-stanfornt) — The Human Brain Is Made up of Two Separate Organs, According to Stanford Researchers.
- [Muscular Dystrophy Association](https://mda.org/press-releases/statement-from-the-muscular-dystrophy-association-on-stanford-medicine-research-advancing) — Statement from the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Stanford Medicine Research Advancing Understanding of the Brain and Neuromuscular Disease
- [Discover Magazine](https://discovermagazine.com/the-brain-may-be-two-organs-a-discovery-that-could-advance-als-research-49701) — The Brain May Be Two Organs, a Discovery That Could Advance ALS Research
- [kurir.rs](https://kurir.rs/planeta/10108484/naucno-otkrice-mozak-dva-nervna-sistema) — AMAZING DISCOVERY ABOUT HUMAN ANATOMY: A Research Team Found that the Human Brain Consists of 2 Separate Organs
- [GB News](https://gbnews.com/science/science-breakthrough-brain-two-parts) — Scientists make significant brain breakthrough — and it could change how humans treat diseases
- [Infobae](https://infobae.com/salud/ciencia/2026/09/18/un-estudio-de-stanford-plantea-que-el-cerebro-esta-formado-por-dos-organos-que-evolucionaron-por-separado) — A Stanford Study Suggests that the Brain Is Made up of Two Organs that Evolved Separately.
- [NZ Herald](https://nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/brain-is-two-separate-organs-scientists-find/RYTPUHSNIFFMBPOCWS3ZV4PGMM) — Brain is two separate organs, scientists find
- [Diário de Coimbra](https://diariocoimbra.pt/2026/09/18/estudo-revela-que-o-cerebro-humano-tem-dois-orgaos-evolutivos-distintos) — Study Reveals that the Human Brain Has Two Distinct Evolutionary Organs
- [namasthe telangana](https://ntnews.com/international/human-brain-may-actually-be-two-ancient-organs-working-together-study-2514106) — The brain.. a Combination of Two Organs!
- [Unknown](https://ethnos.gr/health/article/420956/episthmonesstostanfordkatarriptoyntheoriaaionongiatonanthropinoegkefalo) — Stanford Scientists Debunk Centuries-Old Theory About the Human Brain
- [Neuroscience News](https://neurosciencenews.com/brain-separate-organs-evolution-31219) — The Brain Is Two Separate Organs Joined by Evolution
- [Newser](https://newser.com/story/396670/our-brains-may-be-two-brains-in-one.html) — Our Brains May Be Two Brains in One
- [IndexHR](https://index.hr/vijesti/clanak/otkrice-znanstvenika-ljudski-mozak-nije-jedan-organ-nego-dva/2836178.aspx) — Scientists' Discovery: The Human Brain Is Not One Organ
- [20minutos](https://20minutos.es/ciencia/cerebro-humano-formado-realidad-organos-nerviosos-distintos-unieron-segun-estudio_7038697_0.html) — The Human Brain Is Actually Formed by Two Distinct Nerve Organs that Joined, According to a New Study.
- [diarioaveiro.pt](https://diarioaveiro.pt/2026/09/18/estudo-revela-que-o-cerebro-humano-tem-dois-orgaos-evolutivos-distintos) — Study Reveals that the Human Brain Has Two Distinct Evolutionary Organs
- [New York Post](https://nypost.com/2026/09/18/health/your-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs-new-study-finds-and-it-could-change-how-we-treat-deadly-diseases) — Your brain is actually two organs, new study finds — and it could change how we treat deadly diseases
- [IFLScience](https://iflscience.com/are-you-ever-in-two-minds-its-not-surprising-because-the-brain-is-two-organs-that-evolved-separately-84697) — Are You Ever In Two Minds? It's Not Surprising, Because The Brain Is Two Organs That Evolved Separately
- [GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News…](https://genengnews.com/topics/translational-medicine/two-organ-view-of-the-human-brain-emerges) — Two-Organ View of the Human Brain Emerges
- [News Medical](https://news-medical.net/news/20260918/New-discovery-overturns-a-prevailing-model-of-brain-development.aspx) — New discovery overturns a prevailing model of brain development
- [Observador](https://observador.pt/2026/09/18/cerebro-humano-e-composto-por-dois-orgaos-separados-indica-estudo) — Human Brain Is Composed of Two Separate Organs, Indicates Study
- [online-listing.com](https://online-listing.com/news/blogger/2026/09/18/human-brain-is-two-separate-organs-new-stanford-research-finds-innovation-news-network/happenings) — Human brain is two separate organs, new Stanford research finds – Innovation News Network
- [Noticias ao Minuto](https://noticiasaominuto.com/mundo/3053790/cerebro-humano-e-composto-por-dois-orgaos-separados-estudo) — Study: Human Brain Is Composed of Two Separate Organs
- [Correio da Manhã](https://cmjornal.pt/sociedade/detalhe/cerebro-humano-e-composto-por-dois-orgaos-separados) — Human Brain Is Composed of Two Separate Organs
- [studyfinds.com](https://studyfinds.com/brain-two-organs) — Is The Brain Actually Two Separate Organs?
- [Unknown](https://epiloges.tv/panepistimio-stanfornt-o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleite-apo-dyo-xexorista-organa) — Stanford University: The Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs
- [Innovation News Network](https://innovationnewsnetwork.com/human-brain-is-two-separate-organs-new-stanford-research-finds/74114) — Human brain is two separate organs, new Stanford research finds
- [scinexx.de](https://scinexx.de/news/biowissen/das-menschliche-gehirn-entsteht-aus-zwei-getrennten-zellvorlaeufern) — The Human Brain Is Formed From Two Separate Cell Precursors
- [Iatropedia](https://iatropedia.gr/ygeia/nea-meleti-gia-ton-egkefalo-anoigei-dromo-gia-erevna-se-als-kai-notiaia-myiki-atrofia/229871) — New Brain Study Paves Way for Research Into ALS and Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- [Metrópoles](https://metropoles.com/saude/estudo-sugere-que-cerebro-tem-duas-origens-distintas-no-desenvolvimento) — Study Suggests that Brain Has Two Distinct Origins in Development
- [India Today](https://indiatoday.in/science/story/human-brain-is-not-a-single-organ-new-discovery-could-rewrite-medicine-2997816-2026-09-18) — Human brain is not a single organ. New discovery could rewrite medicine
- [Unknown](https://neakriti.gr/ygeia/2200619_nea-meleti-toy-stanford-allazei-osa-gnorizame-gia-ton-egkefalo-dyo-diakrita-organa-me) — New Stanford Study Changes What We Knew About the Brain — Two Distinct Organs With Different Evolutionary Paths
- [Unknown](https://arabic.pressbee.net/show10993386.html?title=%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%B4%D8%A7%D9%81-%D9%85%D8%B3%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%86%D9%81%D8%B5%D9%84%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%86%D8%B4%D8%A3%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%BA) — Discovering Two Separate Pathways in Brain Formation.
- [La Razón](https://larazon.es/ciencia/tienes-dos-cerebros-acuerdo-estudio-stanford-evolucion-razon_202609186aad2acdf8dade401b116583.html) — You Have Two Brains According to a Stanford Study, and Evolution Is Right.
- [news4health.gr](https://news4health.gr/ygeia/erevnites-tou-stanford-anakalypsan-oti-o-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dyo-ksexorista-organa) — Stanford Researchers Have Discovered that the Brain Is Made up of Two Separate Organs.
- [Nautilus](https://nautil.us/you-have-two-brains-not-one-1285111) — You Have Two Brains, Not One
- [Internewscast](https://internewscast.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-human-brain-functions-as-two-separate-organs) — Scientists Reveal the Human Brain Functions as Two Separate Organs
- [Alpha TV](https://alphatv.gr/ugeia/o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dio-xexorista-organa) — The Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs
- [diariomedico.com](https://diariomedico.com/medicina/neurologia/cerebro-humano-integra-organos-origen-independiente.html) — The Human Brain Integrates Two Organs of Independent Origin
- [unexplained-mysteries.com](https://unexplained-mysteries.com/news/400156/the-human-brain-is-actually-two-separate-organs-new-study-finds) — The human brain is actually two separate organs, new study finds
- [flash.gr](https://flash.gr/o-egkefalos-den-einai-ena-organo-nea-anakalypsi-anatrepei-osa-gnorizame-1081863) — Isn't the Brain an Organ? New Discovery Overturns Everything We Knew
- [ERT NEWS](https://ertnews.gr/eidiseis/nea-ereyna-o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dyo-ksexorista-organa) — New Research: The Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs
- [dialogos.com.cy](https://dialogos.com.cy/dyo-egkefaloi-se-enan-i-nea-theoria-poy-prokalei-anatropi-stin-epistimi) — “Two Brains in One”? The New Theory that Is Causing a Stir in Science
- [Iefimerida](https://iefimerida.gr/ygeia/egkefalos-nea-ereyna-dyo-xehorista-organa) — New Groundbreaking Research on the Human Brain - It Consists of Two Separate Organs - iefimerida.gr
- [ANSA](https://ansa.it/canale_scienza/notizie/biotech/2026/09/18/il-cervello-non-e-uno-solo-in-realta-sono-due-organi-distinti_6583af22-554a-455b-b488-13b167a6806c.html) — The Brain Isn't Just One, They're Actually Two Distinct Organs.
- [The Telegraph](https://telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/09/18/brain-is-two-separate-organs-scientists-find) — Brain is two separate organs, scientists find
- [insider.gr](https://insider.gr/ygeia/425291/stanfornt-o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dyo-xehorista-organa) — Stanford: The Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs
- [abc](https://abc.es/ciencia/cerebro-humano-dos-organos-distintos-acoplados-evolucion-20260918112142-nt.html) — The Human Brain Is Not One, but Two Distinct Organs and 'Coupled' by Evolution.
- [dailymail.com](https://dailymail.com/sciencetech/article-16141399/human-brain-TWO-separate-organs-scientists.html) — The human brain is TWO separate organs, scientists reveal
- [Documento](https://documentonews.gr/article/o-anthropinos-egkefalos-apoteleitai-apo-dyo-xechorista-organa-nea-erevna) — The Human Brain Consists of Two Separate Organs - New Research
- [Protothema](https://protothema.gr/world/article/1880752/o-anthropinos-egefalos-apoteleitai-apo-duo-xehorista-organa-lene-ereunites-tou-stanford) — The Human Brain Is Made up of Two Separate Organs, Say Stanford Researchers
- [cedarnews.net](https://cedarnews.net/polski/993219/przelomowe-odkrycie-dotyczace-mozgu-szkolne-podreczniki-zmiany) — A Breakthrough Brain Discovery: School Textbooks to Be Changed
- [scientias.nl](https://scientias.nl/?p=264755) — Your Brain Turns Out Not to Be a Single Organ at All: It Consists of Two Ancient Systems.
- [Medical Xpress](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-human-brain.html) — Human brain has a split origin, new research suggests
- [NewScientist](https://newscientist.com/article/2589739-our-brain-evolved-from-two-primitive-nervous-systems-that-merged) — Our brain evolved from two primitive nervous systems that merged
- [Science Alert](https://sciencealert.com/the-human-brain-has-two-distinct-origins-scientists-discover) — Textbook Rewrite: The Human Brain Has Two Distinct Origins, Scientists Discover
- [rmf24.pl](https://rmf24.pl/fakty/nauka/news-przelomowe-odkrycie-dotyczace-mozgu-szkolne-podreczniki-do-z,nIdn,1018233) — A Breakthrough Brain Discovery: School Textbooks to Be Changed
- [Trouw](https://trouw.nl/wetenschap/onze-hersenen-waren-oorspronkelijk-met-z-n-tweeen-ontdekken-onderzoekers~bd20244f) — Our Brains Were Originally a Pair, Researchers Discover.
- [Courthouse News Service](https://courthousenews.com/your-brain-may-actually-be-two-brains-in-one) — Your brain may actually be two brains in one
- [Stanford University](https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2026/09/two-separate-brains.html) — Human brain is two separate organs, Stanford Medicine-led research finds

## Questions

**What is the main finding of the Stanford University study?**

The main finding is that the human brain develops from two distinct progenitor cell populations, suggesting it evolved from two separate nervous systems that merged over time. The hindbrain controls automatic functions, while the forebrain and midbrain handle higher-level abilities.

**Why is growing hindbrain neurons in the lab significant?**

Researchers were able to grow functional hindbrain motor neurons in the lab for the first time. This breakthrough is significant because it was previously difficult to achieve, potentially hindering research into neurological conditions like ALS and SMA.

**Does this finding apply to other species?**

Yes, the study found the same two-origin pattern in chickens, zebrafish, and acorn worms. This suggests that the evolutionary basis for the brain developing from two distinct cell populations is ancient and conserved across different species.

---

MediaBias News — https://mediabias.news. Reproduced from https://mediabias.news/tech/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds. Please cite as: MediaBias News, "Human brain develops from two distinct cell populations, study finds", https://mediabias.news/tech/human-brain-develops-from-two-distinct-cell-populations-study-finds