Using a special gene-editing technique they developed, the Chinese researchers were able to “enhance” the brain capacity of rhesus macaques monkeys, making them more “human-like” by adding an extra infusion of smarts, as well as enhanced memory capabilities.

Known as MCPH1, the altered gene reportedly caused the monkeys’ brains to develop in a more human-like manner, with results that included improved reaction times, better short-term memory, and other human-like abilities.

Following the success of this experiment, the research team decided to clone MCPH1 in order to produce a total of 11 transgenic rhesus monkeys – the goal being to create a practical model by which the process can be replicated indefinitely.