• Question: In the future if humans ever evolve again will some people evolve and others not because of their genetics? Also I love your hair!

    Asked by anon-254093 to Laura on 11 May 2020.
    • Photo: Laura Durrant

      Laura Durrant answered on 11 May 2020: last edited 12 May 2020 12:09 am


      Hi Izzy, awesome question!
      Yes it is most certainly possible! Lots of things influence evolution, from the environment (things like weather, population, competition, etc.) to our individual lifestyles (diet, exercise and so on). These factors effect something called epigenetics – this determines whether genes are switched on or off in response environmental/lifestyle factors. Some people may have genes that are more susceptible to this than others. For example, two people living in different climates may carry the same gene for thick hair, but the person living in a warmer climate may have this gene switched off.
      Evolution can also be caused by random mutations of DNA itself which can be passed down family lines. Similarly, some people may be more prone to these mutations compared to others. In a process called natural selection, these mutations are often advantageous and allow us to adapt to new environments. I hope this answers your question!
      And thank you! I’ve nearly gone through the whole rainbow 😛

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