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Neanderthal Gene Boosts Human Muscle Power
13 Aug
Summary
- Neanderthal gene variant increases muscle mass by about 270 grams per copy.
- The gene variant is found in about 10% of modern humans.
- Variant is more common in people of Asian ancestry, rare in Europeans.
A gene variant inherited from Neanderthals approximately 47,000 years ago enhances muscle mass in modern humans. This variant, found in roughly 10% of the global population, results in approximately 270 grams of additional muscle per copy.
The Neanderthal gene variant shows a higher prevalence, up to 25%, in individuals of Southern Asian or Southeast Asian ancestry, and is rare, about 1%, in those of European descent. Its absence in people of African ancestry suggests interbreeding occurred in Eurasia.
Researchers discovered that this variant causes cells to respond more strongly to growth hormone. This effect is particularly noticeable after puberty, as the Neanderthal gene does not interact with placental growth hormone. Subtle differences in jaw shape and tooth roots, also characteristic of Neanderthals, are also associated with this gene.
The study published in Cell highlights one piece of the puzzle regarding Neanderthal robustness. While the gene contributes to increased muscle, Neanderthal physical characteristics were likely shaped by a combination of many genes, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
