Ancient DNA Study Reveals Natural Selection Favored Red Hair Genes
News Context
At a glance
- A new genetic study has revealed that the gene responsible for red hair has been actively favored by natural selection in European populations over the past 10,000 years,...
- Researchers analyzing DNA from nearly 16,000 ancient human remains and more than 6,000 living individuals identified 479 genetic variants that have increased in frequency due to natural selection.
- The study, conducted by an international team of geneticists, found that the rise in frequency of red hair-associated genes coincides with the spread of agriculture across Europe.
A new genetic study has revealed that the gene responsible for red hair has been actively favored by natural selection in European populations over the past 10,000 years, challenging previous assumptions about the pace of human evolution since the advent of agriculture.
Researchers analyzing DNA from nearly 16,000 ancient human remains and more than 6,000 living individuals identified 479 genetic variants that have increased in frequency due to natural selection. Among these, variants linked to red hair, fair skin, and increased vitamin D synthesis show clear signs of being favored, particularly in populations with limited sunlight exposure and dietary sources of vitamin D following the shift to farming.