170. The Science of Human Evolution

Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill

Have you ever wondered why we laugh or if you can really die of a broken heart? Join Professor Luke O'Neill on ‘Show Me the Science’ as he tackles a different issue each week; from the serious to the silly, all explained through science. This Newstalk production will open the world of science to people of all ages. New episodes every Thursday. Show me the Science is with thanks to B Braun. Listen and subscribe to Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App. You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'

170. The Science of Human Evolution

50,000 years ago homo-sapiens arrived in Papua New Guinea - It was a big change of environment and the evolution of the people there is a clear demonstration of the survival of the fittest. Research looking at the DNA of the people in Papua New Guinea showcases two big genetic differences which helped them to survive. For one group living in the mountains, a variant which increases your red blood cell count helped them to cope with the altitude. Another group living in the jungle possessed a genetic variation making them prone to inflammation to fight off infection. Luke explains the history of human evolution across Earth and in Papua New Guinea specifically and what these findings mean going forward.

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