⚙️ how
How does inherited lactose tolerance work?
Human BiologyGenetics
Quick Answer
Lactose tolerance happens when the body keeps producing the enzyme lactase into adulthood. In many populations, this trait is linked to genetic variants near the LCT gene.
The Full Story
Most mammals reduce lactase production after weaning, but many humans continue making it as adults. This persistence is called lactase persistence and is associated with regulatory variants near the LCT gene, not a change in the enzyme itself. It evolved several times in different populations with long histories of dairying. The trait is a good example of recent human evolution shaped by culture and diet.
Key Facts
1.Lactase persistence is linked to variants near the LCT gene
2.The trait evolved independently in multiple populations
3.It allows adults to digest lactose more efficiently
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"How some adults can digest milk—and why it evolved."