8 genetic mutations that confer supernormal

Scientists were able to determine how genes affect some of our habits and characteristics. Perhaps you, too, mutant superhero.

Over 99% of our genetic information is the same as the genetic information of all other inhabitants of the planet. But what kept less than 1%, it is of particular interest. Specific gene variations confer some of us have unusual qualities.

1. Flash and gene ACTN3

ACTN3 gene is present in every one of us, but some of its variations contribute to the development of the protein alpha-actinin-3ACTN3 and ACE genotypes in elite Jamaican and US sprinters. This protein affects the operation of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are responsible for the speed of contraction of the muscles involved in running and power loads.

In 18% of people are absent this protein because they have inherited two defective copies of the gene ACTN3. Alas, the high-speed running is not for them.

2. Insomnia agent and gene hDEC2

Imagine how it would be great to sleep four hours a night and still sleep. But there are people who it is given. Only recently, scientists were able to ascertain the reasons for susceptibility to short sleep. researchers believe

This means that the ability of little sleep can be inherited. Scientists hope to someday learn to manage it and thus enable people to effectively adjust sleeping mode.

3. Superdegustator and gene TAS2R38

about a quarterLife's Extremes: Supertaster vs. Nontaster Earth's population feels the taste of food more acutely than others. The reason for such hypersensitivity, according to scientistsBasic GeneticsLies in the genes, but rather in the TAS2R38 gene that affects the operation of receptors that recognize bitter.

4. Reinforced Man and the gene LRP5

Brittle bones can deliver a lot of trouble to its owner. researchers foundLRP5 gene LRP5 gene mutation, which affects the mineral content of bone and may cause bone fragility. As it was established, there are several types of LRP5 gene mutations that cause juvenile osteoporosis and osteoporosis syndrome and psevdogliomy.

But another type of mutation of the same gene can directly produce the opposite effect, giving some people is so strong bones"Unbreakable" bones prompt a hunt for genesThat they are almost impossible to break.

5. Dr. anti-malaria and HBB gene

Carriers of sickle-cell anemia is one gene for hemoglobin, the ordinary and the other leads to the formation of sickle cell. Such people have an increased resistance to malariaHow sickle-cell carriers fend off malaria.

And though in themselves blood gene mutations are not a cause for joy, this informationHow Malaria Has Affected the Human Genome and What Human Genetics Can Teach Us about Malaria It can help in the search for new and effective ways to treat malaria.

6. Warrior cholesterol and CETP gene

Cholesterol level is affected not only the environment and the food, but also genetics. Mutations of the gene responsible for production-cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP)A low prevalence of coronary heart disease among subjects with increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, including those with plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein deficiencyIt leads to a deficiency of this protein.

As a result of increased levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL), which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular system.

7. Captain coffee lover and BDNF genes and SLC6A4

For the way your body metabolizes caffeine, responsible for at least six genesGenome-wide meta-analysis identi fi es six novel loci associatedwith habitual coffee consumption. Some of them, such as BDNF and SLC6A4 genesNew genetic variants associated with coffee drinkingInfluence the reinforcing properties of caffeine that make you want to coffee more and more.

Other genes that determine how the body comprises caffeine metabolism. Those of us who quickly breaks down caffeine, tend to drink more coffee, because it has the effect of drinking them is faster.

Finally, there are genesA genetic variation in the adenosine A2A receptor gene (ADORA2A) contributes to individual sensitivity to caffeine effects on sleep.Which depend on whether you will be able to sleep after a daily bolus coffee.

8. Scarlet Witch and the gene ALDH2

If your cheeks blush charmingly after the first glass of wine, blame the ALDH2 gene mutationThe Genetics of Alcohol Metabolism. One type of such mutation interferes with the ability of the liver to convert ALDH2 enzyme acetaldehyde by-product of alcohol to acetate. When acetaldehyde molecules are released into the bloodstream, there is an opening capillaries, appears flush or fever.

Unfortunately, in addition to the sweet blush from acetaldehyde, there is another, more unpleasant side: it is a carcinogen. According to some researchersThe Alcohol Flushing Response: An Unrecognized Risk Factor for Esophageal Cancer from Alcohol ConsumptionPeople, reddening of small doses of alcohol, which means that most likely subject ALDH2 gene mutation, the risk of cancer of the esophagus.