An experiment with the ciliate Stentor coeruleus has shown that single-celled organisms are capable of associative learning, even in the absence of a nervous system. This discovery suggests that complex forms of behavior have ancient evolutionary origins.
A study has shown that powdered matcha green tea reduces the frequency of sneezing in allergic rhinitis by acting as a neuromodulator and blocking the nerve signals that trigger this reflex. However, matcha does not eliminate the underlying cause of the allergy and does not affect immunity or gut microbiota.
Centuries of living alongside humans have led Apennine brown bears to become less aggressive on a genetic level. Research has identified genes associated with peaceful behavior, which has helped the population survive in close proximity to people.