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This lab report explores the relationship between lactase persistence (LP) and the -13910*T allele, a genetic variant associated with the ability to digest lactose. We examine the gene-culture co-evolutionary model, which suggests that LP is advantageous in cultures that practice dairying. By analyzing archaeological and genetic evidence, we aim to determine the timing of LP emergence in Europe in correlation with the onset of dairying practices. Our findings indicate a strong association between the introduction of European farming and an increase in the frequency of the -13910*T allele, supporting the hypothesis that LP evolved rapidly after the advent of dairying.
The LCT gene, located on chromosome 2q21, encodes the enzyme lactase, responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose in the small intestine.
Lactase Persistence (LP), an autosomal dominant trait, allows continued lactase production, while Lactose Intolerance results from the absence of LP. LP is primarily determined by the -13910*T allele frequency. The emergence of LP is closely tied to the practice of dairying in human cultures, as LP is advantageous in populations with access to fresh milk.
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This report investigates the timing of LP emergence in Europe and its relationship to the onset of farming and dairying practices.
We analyzed genetic and archaeological data to trace the history of LP and the -13910*T allele in Europe. Data sources included ancient DNA samples, calibrated carbon-14 dating, and archaeological findings. To estimate the age of the -13910*T allele, we utilized allelic age calculations based on genetic data.
Our findings provide compelling evidence for the co-evolution of LP and dairying practices in Europe.
The -13910*T allele frequency showed the following trends:
| Time Period | -13910*T Allele Frequency |
|---|---|
| Approx. 9000 years ago | 0.031 |
| Approx. 7000 years ago (Northern Italy) | 0.357 |
| Approx. 127 generations after European agriculture began (Ireland) | 0.954 |
The -13910*T allele's strong association with lactase persistence is evident from these frequency changes. Additionally, allelic age calculations align with the emergence of dairying practices in Europe.
Our results support the gene-culture co-evolutionary model, suggesting that LP emerged rapidly after dairying practices began in Europe. The -13910*T allele's increased frequency correlates with the availability of fresh milk, providing strong evidence for LP's selective advantage in dairy-consuming populations. The archaeological record and ancient DNA studies indicate the presence of dairying in Europe around 7,900-7,450 years ago, aligning with the estimates of LP emergence.
In conclusion, our study demonstrates a significant correlation between the -13910*T allele frequency and the emergence of Lactase Persistence in Europe. This suggests that LP evolved in response to the introduction of dairying practices, as indicated by archaeological and genetic evidence. The findings shed light on the co-evolution of genes and culture, highlighting the importance of dietary adaptations in human evolution.
Lactase Persistence and the -13910*T Allele. (2024, Jan 18). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/document/lactase-persistence-and-the-13910-t-allele
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