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50 Times Human Genetics Led To Some Unique Body Characteristics
CuriositiesNOV 16, 2023

50 Times Human Genetics Led To Some Unique Body Characteristics

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Human DNA is programmed to be unique. Our bodies contain about 20,000–25,000 genes responsible for giving you brown hair instead of red or a small forehead instead of a big one. They define your height or lactose tolerance, your risk of heart disease, and how fast you can run.
Even though we are all special, some of us are born with even more genetic diversity. Multiple-color eyes, unique birthmarks, albinism, and vitiligo are to name a few.
To celebrate these differences, the Bored Panda team has collected pictures of people with these (and other) unique features. They remind us to avoid judgment and accept everyone with their own beautifully distinctive qualities.

#1 A Native Group Of People Living On The Soloman Islands Northeast Of Australia Called Melanesians Is Famous For Their Beautiful Dark Skin And Naturally Blonde Hair

A Native Group Of People Living On The Soloman Islands Northeast Of Australia Called Melanesians Is Famous For Their Beautiful Dark Skin And Naturally Blonde Hair
470points

#2 I Have Vitiligo And Heterochromia

I Have Vitiligo And Heterochromia
366points

#3 Child With Waardenburg Syndrome

Child With Waardenburg Syndrome
357points

The most influential effect of mutation is its role in evolution. Without these changes in DNA, organisms wouldn’t be able to develop further. Genes in certain or different conditions can improve themselves to help the organism adapt. If proven successful, they can be passed on to other generations.

Contrary to common conceptions, human evolution hasn’t stopped. In countries without good healthcare, people who survive infectious diseases can pass on their genetic resistance to their offspring. DNA evidence shows growing resistance to illnesses like malaria and Lassa fever, which saves people’s lives every year. We may also be adapting to unhealthy diets, as our blood pressure and cholesterol are lowering as a response to our fat and sugar-induced diet.

#4 I Think I Get New Freckles Every Day

I Think I Get New Freckles Every Day
347points

#5 Vitiligo Appreciation Post. Took Me 28 Years To Realize That I’m Blessed

Vitiligo Appreciation Post. Took Me 28 Years To Realize That I’m Blessed
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325points

#6 My Brother Was Born With Brown Eyes And A Slice Of Blue

My Brother Was Born With Brown Eyes And A Slice Of Blue
319points

Some genetic varieties have become so common that we don’t consider them to be unique anymore. The mutation that gives people blue eyes is actually quite recent in the history of humans. This change in genes removes the brown pigment from the iris and makes it blue. Researchers were able to trace it back to the first time it occurred in a Spanish person who lived a mere 7,000 years ago.

Red hair is also among the most well-known genetic varieties that people have. While we all might know a person with fiery locks, they are still pretty rare, as only 5–8% of people have this feature.

#7 "Uncombable Hair Syndrome" Is A Rare And Harmless Condition That Disappears Around Puberty

"Uncombable Hair Syndrome" Is A Rare And Harmless Condition That Disappears Around Puberty
308points

#8 This Kid Was Born With Natural White Frontal Hairs, Blue Eyes And A Lightning-Like Mark Across His Face

This Kid Was Born With Natural White Frontal Hairs, Blue Eyes And A Lightning-Like Mark Across His Face
304points

#9 Embrace What You Got. At 40 Years Of Age I Was Diagnosed With Vitiligo. Never Be Ashamed Or Embarrassed (I Know Easier Said Than Done)

Embrace What You Got. At 40 Years Of Age I Was Diagnosed With Vitiligo. Never Be Ashamed Or Embarrassed (I Know Easier Said Than Done)
I believe I got it because I can handle the stares and questions. Just remember if you’re having trouble dealing with it, you’re not alone.
286points

#10 Humans Have Relics Of Growth As A Fetus, Representing Cell Division And Trails. They Are Invisible Under Normal Conditions But Can Become Apparent On The Skin Due To "Genetic Mosaicism"

Humans Have Relics Of Growth As A Fetus, Representing Cell Division And Trails. They Are Invisible Under Normal Conditions But Can Become Apparent On The Skin Due To "Genetic Mosaicism"
282points

Unique genes have very useful effects on an individual’s well-being. For example, most people in the world are lactose intolerant, but due to mutations, it has become possible for them to digest dairy. Lactose-tolerant individuals often originate from northwest Europe and some parts of Africa, where farming became a major source of food.

Additionally, some gene mutations explain why some people don’t get sick. Numerous people have avoided catching diseases during COVID-19, HIV, and other outbreaks. Hyperimmune people can be studied to discover medicines and new ways to treat diseases.

#11 Girl In The Philippines Has A Genetic Mutation Of Blue Eyes

Girl In The Philippines Has A Genetic Mutation Of Blue Eyes
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276points

#12 Heterochromia And Mirrored Makeup

Heterochromia And Mirrored Makeup
273points

#13 My Son And I Have The Same 2-Freckle Spot On Our Hands

My Son And I Have The Same 2-Freckle Spot On Our Hands
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262points

#14 Here Are My Marfan's Syndrome Hands

Here Are My Marfan's Syndrome Hands
245points

Numerous superheroes in comics, books, and cinematic universes attribute their magical abilities to genetic mutations. Even though it’s largely fictitious, there are specific genetic variations that allow us to have some “super qualities”. For example, a LRP5 gene mutation can increase bone density to the point where it becomes impossible to break them. The bones are known to crack baseball bats and withstand car wrecks.

People with the “short sleeper” mutation naturally need only four hours of sleep to feel totally energized. The lucky 1% of the population can sleep less than the recommended seven to eight hours without feeling sleep deprivation.

#15 My Vitiligo Eyebrows

My Vitiligo Eyebrows
243points

#16 A Teenager From India Has A Rare Condition Called "Werewolf Syndrome", Or Also Known As Hypertrichosis

A Teenager From India Has A Rare Condition Called "Werewolf Syndrome",  Or Also Known As Hypertrichosis
229points

#17 I Have A Permanently-Dilated Eye

I Have A Permanently-Dilated Eye
227points

#18 I Can Grip Things Backwards

I Can Grip Things Backwards
222points

A mutation that’s just for the ladies allows them to see a wider range of colors. Known as tetrachromacy, it’s present in about 12% of women, giving them “supervision” to see hues undetectable by other people. That’s why sometimes for men, “all the colors look the same,” while women can’t choose their favorite one.

Moreover, the “sports gene” mutation gives people super speed because it controls fast-twitch muscles, allowing them to flex faster for running and other physical tasks. A study in 2008 found that the majority of top runners and athletes have this mutation. Well, it seems that sometimes it all comes down to your DNA.

#19 My Boyfriend's Beard Hair Grows In Like A Hurricane Pattern

My Boyfriend's Beard Hair Grows In Like A Hurricane Pattern
221points

#20 Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
213points
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