An international team of researchers has made a groundbreaking discovery linking 18 genetic regions to the size and shape of teeth in modern humans. This includes 17 previously unknown regions associated with tooth sizes, revealing how genetic variants, inherited from Neanderthals, impact dental characteristics. The study, published in Current Biology, sheds light on the ways these ancient genes influence modern human teeth, with some genes potentially linked to interbreeding with Neanderthals.
One of the key findings involves a gene believed to have been inherited from Neanderthals, which contributes to variations in tooth shape. This gene is associated with thinner incisors, particularly in individuals of European descent. The study used 3D scanning technologies to measure dental crowns in 882 volunteers from Colombia with mixed European, Indigenous American, and African ancestry. This diverse group helped the researchers identify substantial differences in teeth based on ethnicity.
Dr. Kaustubh Adhikari from University College London, part of the research team, emphasized that these genes affect the development of our teeth, and some may be responsible for the variations observed across different ethnic groups. The study found that individuals of European descent tend to have smaller teeth overall, which could be linked to these Neanderthal-derived genes.
One such gene, EDAR, which had previously been linked to incisor shape in East Asian populations, also influences the width of all teeth. Additionally, the research suggests that genes inherited from Neanderthals may affect other physical traits in modern humans, such as nose shape.
Professor Andrés Ruiz-Linares from Aix-Marseille University noted that it remains unclear whether these tooth-related genes were selected through evolution for dental health advantages or because of their effects in other areas of the body. Nonetheless, the findings could have future medical applications. Qing Li from Fudan University expressed hope that genetic testing might one day assist in diagnosing dental issues or even help treat anomalies through gene therapies.
These insights into the genetic roots of dental characteristics not only expand our understanding of human evolution but also pave the way for potential dental applications in the future.
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