Mice are transformed into aggressive 'zombie' hunters after scientists flick a killer switch in their brains
They're known for their timidity and love of cheese, but scientists have tapped into the 'killer instinct' of mice, to turn them into aggressive 'zombies'.
Researchers isolated the brain circuitry in mice that coordinates predatory hunting, including one set of neurons in the amygdala - the brain's centre of emotion and motivation, making the animal pursue prey.
They also 'switched on' another set in the brain region signalling the animal to use its jaw and neck muscles to bite anything in its path – a little like a fictional zombie.
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