Running gene
Being a fast runner isnât all about training. Some people are born with the gift of speed, thanks to a mutation of the gene ACTN3. It controls the fast-twitch muscles fibers that allow us to run; those who have more of them are better at all sports, but especially sprinting.
bad fat immunity
The Inuit population doesnât need to worry about the adverse effects of eating bad fats. Although their diet consists of fatty animals, their genes have adapted accordingly. Their mutation limits their bodiesâ production of fats, both good and badâmost notably LDL cholesterol that can cause heart disease.
unbreakable bone
If youâre lucky enough to have a mutation of the LRP5 gene, youâve probably never had a broken bone. LRP5 is responsible for bone density, and those who have the mutated version have extra-strong skeletons. An extended family in Connecticut who has it has no history of fractures, and their special mutation is helping us know more about the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.
short sleeper gene
Some people just donât need that much sleep. Called the âshort sleeperâ mutation, a variation of the hDEC2 allows people to feel energized with just four hours of sleep. About 1% of the population can sleep less than the recommended seven or eight hours without the impairment that comes from sleep deprivation
Immunity to pain
Wouldnât it be great to have an immunity to pain? Those who have a variation of the SCN11A gene might as well be. The gene regulates the amount of sodium in our cells, and our nerves rely on sodium to send out pain signals. But the ability not to feel pain has its downsides. People with this mutation are prone to accidents that could result in things like broken bones.
super taster gene
Approximately one-fourth of the population is known as a âsuper tasterâ, whose taste buds are more sensitive than the rest of us. The TAS2R38 is the bitter-taste receptor gene, and those with the mutation are more likely to ask for cream and sugar with their coffee.
super strength
Who wouldnât want to be stronger? Well, those with a mutation in the MSTN gene donât. Their muscles are already amped up, due to a lack of myostatinâa protein which tells the muscles when to stop growing. Animals who lack the protein often grow large, muscular bodies that contain very little fat. In humans, this mutation allows one to reach a muscle mass double that of the average person and stay muscular, without having to do much to keep it up