How genetics is revealing the biology of skin colour is more than skin-deep

Human skin, in all its diversity, is not just our largest organ but a vivid narrative of our ancestry, evolution, and societal structures. From poetic musings to scientific studies, skin color has been a subject of intrigue and, unfortunately, discrimination. Understanding its biological roots and embracing its diversity can lead to a more inclusive world.

Key Points:

• Melanin and Genetics: Skin color is primarily determined by melanin, produced by melanocytes, influenced by genetics, sun exposure, and environment.

• Evolutionary Adaptation: The variation in skin color is an evolutionary adaptation to ultraviolet radiation, with darker skin evolving in high UV areas to protect against folate degradation, and lighter skin in lower UV areas to facilitate vitamin D production.

• Historical Classification: Attempts to categorize human skin color date back to Carl Linnaeus in 1735 and the von Luschan scale, which remains in use.

• Genetic Factors: Modern skin color diversity is influenced by natural selection affecting genes like SLC24A5 and SLC45A2 in Eurasians and others in East Asians, suggesting separate evolutionary paths for lighter skin.

• Cultural and Social Implications: Beyond biology, skin color has been a basis for social hierarchies and discrimination. Celebrating skin color diversity can foster inclusivity and respect for human differences.

Additional Insights:

• Albinism and Skin Conditions: Conditions like albinism reveal the complexities of skin pigmentation and societal challenges faced by individuals with such conditions.

• Scientific Advances: Recent genomic studies continue to uncover the intricate genetic mechanisms behind skin pigmentation, broadening our understanding of human diversity.

Keywords Explained:

• Melanocytes: Cells in the skin that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.

• Ultraviolet Radiation: Part of the electromagnetic spectrum that affects skin color evolution and vitamin D synthesis.

• Natural Selection: The process by which traits that improve an organism's chances of survival and reproduction become more common in a population over generations.

Published in : The Hindu

Date appeared in newspaper : 08 April 2024

Link to the article (might require a paid subscription) : https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/2024-04-08/th_international/articleGK6CL3CJP-6390519.ece

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