Recent Human Mutations
Human evolution is ongoing, with subtle changes in our DNA adapting to modern conditions. A study from the University of Queensland highlights five recent mutations that illustrate this process.
One significant mutation is the ability to digest lactose in adulthood, which emerged around 7,500 to 8,000 years ago in Central Europe. Additionally, certain groups have developed resistance to diseases like malaria and tuberculosis due to urban living conditions.
Other notable changes include the emergence of blue eyes from a mutation in the OCA2 gene, a 10% reduction in average brain size over 30,000 years, and genetic adaptations in Tibetans that allow them to thrive at high altitudes without health risks. These mutations reflect how humans continue to evolve in response to environmental challenges.