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Neanderthal gene variant boosts muscle mass

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-08-09 21:11 UTC → 2026-08-18 20:52 UTC · added removed

Researchers from the Karolinska Institutet (Sweden) and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (Germany) have identified a Neanderthal-derived version of the growth-hormone receptor (GHR). Laboratory tests showed (GHR) that influences muscle development. Published in the journal ‘Current Biology’, the study indicates that cells carrying the this variant respond about approximately 40% more strongly to growth hormone, leading to significantly larger cell growth. Analysis of data from more than one million modern adults revealed shows that carriers have, possess, on average, roughly 270 grams of additional muscle mass, an mass. This effect that becomes apparent appears to manifest after childhood, likely around puberty. puberty when growth-hormone levels rise, as researchers found no significant difference in muscle mass among children under the age of 11. The variant entered the human gene pool around approximately 47,000 years ago through interbreeding and is most prevalent in East and South Asian populations (up to 24%) while being remaining rare in Europeans (≈0.5%). Building on these While the gene contributes to greater muscle development, researchers noted it does not replace the benefits of physical training. In related findings, research led by the Regeneron Genetics Center has identified mutations in the FNIP1 gene that are also associated with higher muscle mass. This specific mutation is linked to reduced abdominal fat and lower blood glucose levels, which may result potentially resulting in a 60% lower risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases. This FNIP1 mutation is estimated to occur in approximately one in 7,000 people.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-18 20:52 UTC Neanderthal gene variant boosts muscle mass
  2. 2026-08-09 21:11 UTC Neanderthal gene variant boosts muscle mass
  3. 2026-08-08 12:02 UTC Neanderthal gene variant boosts muscle mass

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