By studying the mirror neuron system in these children, researchers might be able to identify early markers for social cognitive deficits, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention.

In fact, the mirror systems seem to be activated only in social contexts -- they are designed to pay attention to those around us. "It is a very important social function," she said.

Mirror neurons help us empathize and understand others' actions. In people with MTS, this system is so heightened that it results in physical sensations when they witness touch or other sensations.

In addition, Ramachandran argues that the mirror neuron system may be what enabled homo sapiens to leap from gene -based evolution to cultural-based evolution. Cultural-based evolution, in ...