Classical and Emerging Animal Models in Developmental and Comparative Neuroanatomy

The field of neuroscience is witnessing a growing trend toward expanding the spectrum of animal models used to uncover fundamental principles of nervous system organization. Historically, classical laboratory animal models have been instrumental in revealing key neurobiological mechanisms; however, they capture only a fraction of the neural diversity that has evolved across species. As a result, there is increasing recognition of the importance of broadening neurobiological research to include a wider array of organisms. This shift promises to illuminate novel developmental trajectories, neuroendocrine adaptations, and anatomical specializations that remain inaccessible when research is confined to traditional models. Modern advances in imaging, molecular neuroanatomy, and transcriptomics are opening the door to detailed studies of previously underexplored species, though important gaps remain in fully understanding how neural circuits develop and diversify in an evolutionary context.This Research Topic aims to highlight how both classical laboratory species and emerging animal models are expanding our understanding of brain organization and development. In promoting comparative neuroanatomy, biological diversity, and innovative experimental approaches, the topic seeks to address several conceptual and methodological questions. These include identifying new principles of neuroanatomical organization that emerge with a broadened species spectrum, understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive diversity in homologous brain structures across species, and exploring the role of ecological niches and life-history strategies in shaping neural architecture. Furthermore, the topic will focus on how developmental programs vary, which animal models enable unique insights into neurodevelopment, and what neuroanatomical adaptations accompany distinct reproductive strategies and environmental conditions.The scope of this Research Topic extends to studies involving both established and unconventional animal models and encompasses a wide methodological range. To encourage comprehensive exploration, we welcome contributions on, but not limited to, the following themes:• Evolutionary diversity in neuroanatomical organization• Mechanisms underlying diversity in homologous brain structures• Variability in neural developmental programs and their evolutionary plasticity• Comparative neuroendocrinology, including neuroanatomical adaptations to reproductive strategies and environmental cues• Experimental advantages and methodological innovations using emerging animal modelsBy uniting research across species and methodologies, this topic aims to broaden our understanding of how neural circuits develop, diversify, and adapt, ultimately revealing fundamental principles that remain hidden when research focuses on a narrow set of model organisms. Topic editors: Alejandro Raúl Schmidt, Verónica Berta Dorfman, Rafael Peláez Cristóbal Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79888/classical-and-emerging-animal-models-in-developmental-and-comparative-neuroanatomy