It seems like new discoveries and advances are happening every day in the scientific community, and the breaking of the genetic code that tells us where we all come from is definitely emotional and life-altering.
Recently, scientists claim to have found evidence that some genetic material given by a long-extinct ancestor may not have changed us for the better.
This new studyPublished in PLoS Geneticsrefer to genetic mixing with the Denisovans that occurred approximately 60,000 years ago.
Image credit: Wikipedia
They say we inherited from them a zinc regulation problem that predisposes modern humans to depression and other mental disorders.
It was useful in the ancient past to help Denisovans tolerate colder climates.
Scientists like co-lead author Elena Bosch are surprised that mutations affect so many modern humans, however, when considering.
“For example, a variant of the EPAS1 gene inherited from Denisovans makes it possible to adapt to life at altitude, but it is only found in Tibetans. However, in our case, the impact extends to all populations outside of Africa.
Image credit: iStock
Most of what we know about Denisovans comes from genetic research, as there remains very little physical evidence of their existence. This genetic analysis revealed that this particular genetic adaptation was not found in Neanderthals – meaning it must have come from interbreeding with Denisovans (or with some previously unknown extinct species).
“We discovered that this mutation certainly had implications for the transport of zinc within the cell. »
Zinc is essential for humans and animals because it acts as a messenger for cells and for the development and execution of hormones, enzymes and various proteins.
If we fail to do so, physical and neurological disorders often result.
Co-author Ruben Vicente says the genetic mutation they found that relates to zinc balance – SLC30A9 – influences a cell’s metabolism, possibly to help adapt to cold.
That said, while it helps in some ways, there could be consequences in the modern world. The SLC30A9 mutation is also strongly linked with mental health issues like depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and autism.
Image credit: iStock
Genetics play a role in the development of mental health problems, but the extent to which genes matter is still debated.
“In the future, extending this study to animal models could shed light on this predisposition to suffer from mental illnesses. »
As with most genetic predispositions, people may or may not develop a related disease, but this is a step toward better understanding when and why this disease occurs.
If you found this story fascinating, check out this story on a lithium “gold mine” discovered in the United States which could completely change the game for electric vehicle batteries.
