Genetic adaptation helps Turkana people thrive in desert conditions.
Turkana people's genetic adaptation allows them to thrive in extreme desert conditions but may cause health issues in urban settings.
Why it matters
- Genetic adaptations help Turkana people survive in extreme desert conditions.
- Understanding these adaptations can inform health programs for transitioning populations.
By the numbers
- 5,000+ people in the study cohort.
- 308 Turkana genomes sequenced.
- 7 million genetic variants analyzed.
- 8 regions of DNA underwent natural selection.
The big picture
- Genetic adaptations beneficial in one environment can become detrimental in another.
- Highlights the impact of lifestyle changes on health.
What they're saying
- Experts note that findings can guide health programs for the Turkana and other populations.
Caveats
- Genetic adaptations beneficial in desert conditions may cause health issues in urban settings.
What’s next
- Researchers are exploring how chronic up-regulation of STC1 affects health.
- Potential therapeutic solutions for kidney diseases are being investigated.