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yesterday

Haenyeo Divers Exhibit Unique Genetic and Physiological Adaptations for Extreme Diving

New research identifies gene variants for cold tolerance and blood pressure regulation, alongside enhanced dive reflexes in Jeju Island’s Haenyeo divers, offering insights into human evolution and potential medical breakthroughs.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Xinhua/Shutterstock (14223158c) A group of Haenyeo (women divers) walk on the beach after diving catch on Jeju Island, South Korea, Nov. 19, 2023. Jeju Island, located in the southern part of South Korea, is a popular tourist destination in the country. South Korea Jeju Tourism - 19 Nov 2023
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The average age of Jeju's Haenyeo is around 70, and few young women want to train to become divers.
The divers spend a large percentage of their day underwater, repeatedly diving to the seabed to collect sea urchins, abalone and other seafood.

Overview

  • A study published in Cell Reports reveals two gene variants in Haenyeo divers, linked to cold tolerance and reduced diastolic blood pressure, present in 33% of Jeju participants versus 7% of mainlanders.
  • Haenyeo demonstrate an enhanced bradycardia response during dives, with heart rates dropping by an average of 18.8 bpm compared to 12.6 bpm in non-divers from Jeju.
  • These adaptations likely arose through centuries of natural selection driven by the Haenyeo’s marine-based culture and matriarchal diving economy.
  • The findings highlight potential therapeutic applications, such as treatments for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and stroke, inspired by the genetic traits observed in the Haenyeo.
  • The Haenyeo tradition, recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016, continues to provide a living example of human adaptability and resilience.