Genetic Research Sheds Light on Blue Eyes’ Origins
A team at the University of Copenhagen has uncovered that all blue-eyed individuals may share a single common ancestor, according to their recent study. This discovery centers on a genetic mutation affecting the OCA2 gene.
The OCA2 gene and melanin production
The OCA2 gene, responsible for producing the P protein, plays a crucial role in melanin production. Melanin determines the color of skin, hair, and eyes. Mutations in this gene can alter melanin distribution, affecting eye color and potentially leading to conditions like oculocutaneous albinism, characterized by very fair skin, light-colored hair, and eyes.
Genetic mutation and eye color
The specific mutation identified by the researchers created a “switch” adjacent to the OCA2 gene, inhibiting melanin production and resulting in blue eyes. “From this, we can conclude that all blue-eyed individuals are linked to the same ancestor,” explained Professor Eiberg, who led the study.
Confirming the findings
By examining mitochondrial DNA and comparing eye color across different countries, including Jordan, Denmark, and Turkey, the team confirmed their results. Professor Eiberg emphasized that this mutation neither benefits nor harms survival. “It simply shows that nature constantly shuffles the human genome, creating a genetic cocktail and trying out different changes,” he remarked.
This groundbreaking research not only traces the origins of blue eyes but also highlights the dynamic nature of genetic evolution, offering insights into the complex processes that shape human diversity.