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Therefore, lactase persistence is often cited as an example of both recent human evolution [15] and, as lactase persistence is a genetic trait but animal husbandry a cultural trait, gene-culture coevolution in the mutual human-animal symbiosis initiated with the advent of agriculture.
Studies have linked the occurrence of lactase persistence to two different single-nucleotide polymorphisms about 14 and 22 kilobases upstream of the 5'-end of the LPH gene. [26] Both mutations, C→T at position -13910 and G→ A at position -22018, have been independently linked to lactase persistence. [27]
Culture can profoundly influence gene frequencies in a population. Lactase persistence. One of the best known examples is the prevalence of the genotype for adult lactose absorption in human populations, such as Northern Europeans and some African societies, with a long history of raising cattle for milk.
Lactase activity persistence in adults is associated with two polymorphisms: C/T 13910 and G/A 22018 located in the MCM6 gene. [28] These polymorphisms may be detected by molecular biology techniques at the DNA extracted from blood or saliva samples; genetic kits specific for this diagnosis are available.
Lactase persistence is a rare ability among mammals. [73] Because it involves a single gene, it is a simple example of convergent evolution in humans. Other examples of convergent evolution, such as the light skin of Europeans and East Asians or the various means of resistance to malaria, are much more complicated. [15]
The gene responsible for production of the lactase enzyme is expressed exclusively in the enterocytes lining the small intestine, which are cells that help absorb nutrients from stuff that we eat. Once produced, the enzyme makes it’s way to the cell’s surface along the cell’s microvilli, these little tentacles that help increase surface ...
Higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids often found in ultraprocessed foods may interfere with the immune system’s fight against cancer cells, a new study says.
Many adults are lactose intolerant because their bodies cease production of the enzyme lactase post childhood. However, mutations in the promoter region of the lactase gene (LCT) result in the continued production of lactase throughout adulthood in certain African populations, a condition known as lactase persistence. A study conducted by Sarah ...