Many human genes evolved recently
March 7, 2006 | Source: NewScientist.com news service
Human genes involved in metabolism, skin pigmentation, brain function and reproduction have evolved in response to recent environmental changes, according to a new study of natural selection in the human genome.
Identifying the gene variants that are under selection may one day help medicine, because individuals with a newly evolved gene variant may be better adapted for modern human conditions and less susceptible to certain diseases. Understanding the differences could help guide future therapies.