Genetic switch for height discovered and how it may influence osteoarthritis

July 05, 2017

Coverage on Nature Genetics GDF5 and Height Paper

Switches have been discovered in certain genes that, when turned on at the growth plate of long bones, can determine an individual's height. The "short stature" variant is particularly prevalent among European and Asian populations and may have represented an evolutionary advantage. These switches, when turned on at the joints, appear to increase the risk of osteoarthritis.

Source: ilFarmacista Science and Medicine

Author: Maria Rita Montebelli

Link: Full Text