On South Korea’s Jeju Island, generations of women known as Haenyeo have made a living freediving for seafood, often into their 80s and even during pregnancy. A new study published in Cell Reports sheds light on their remarkable physical endurance and cold-water tolerance.
Researchers found that Jeju Islanders, including both divers and non-divers, carry unique gene variants not found in mainland South Koreans. These genes may help regulate blood pressure and improve cold resistance, crucial traits for diving in waters below 55°F (13°C). One variant, linked to reduced blood pressure during dives, could protect against hypertension-related risks. However, the extreme dive reflex, marked by slowed heart rates, appears to stem from rigorous training rather than genetics. The study highlights how both evolution and lifestyle shape human resilience, with potential insights into how our bodies cope with stressors like cold, low oxygen, and disease.
Sources:
https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(25)00348-1?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2211124725003481%3Fshowall%3Dtrue
Hey Conor, this is such a great post. It is interesting how natural selection and adaptation can drive one's population to have such unique genes. This reminds me of the Bajau Sea Nomads, they are also known for the ability to dive very deep with little gear, or even the tribe near the Everest mountain. I would love to have some of these incredible genes.
ReplyDeleteAgain, great post!
Thank you!!
I like that this shows how much humanity can evolve over the years as well, this was interesting knowing especially for something as vigorous at diving, EVEN PREGANANT??
ReplyDeleteVery interesting and really shows evolution with the genes that help them in cold water and lower blood pressure while diving.
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