Amplification of potential thermogenetic mechanisms in cetacean brains

Abstract

To elucidate causality underlying the evolution of large brains in cetaceans, we examined the brains of 16 cetartiodactyl species for evidence of non-shivering thermogenesis. In comparison to the artiodactyl brain, the cetacean brain exhibits an expanded expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1, UCPs being mitochondrial inner membrane proteins that dissipate the proton gradient to generate heat) in cortical neurons, localization of UCP4 within a substantial proportion of glia throughout the brain, and an increased density of noradrenergic axonal boutons (noradrenaline functioning to control concentrations of and activate UCPs). Thus, cetacean brains possess multiple characteristics indicative of intensified thermogenetic functionality that can be related to their current and historical obligatory aquatic niche. These findings necessitate reassessment of our concepts regarding the reasons for large brain evolution and associated functional capacities in cetaceans.