Tibetan Women Show Unique Evolutionary Adaptations for High-Altitude Living

A new study reveals physiological traits that enhance reproductive success in the oxygen-scarce environment of the Tibetan Plateau.

Tibetan women have evolved to thrive in high-altitude conditions with low oxygen, demonstrating unique physiological adaptations.
The study highlights traits such as intermediate hemoglobin levels and high oxygen saturation that optimize oxygen delivery without thickening the blood.
These adaptations allow for higher reproductive success, with women showing these traits having more live births on average.
Research identifies a genetic variant of the EPAS1 gene, inherited from ancient Denisovans, that regulates hemoglobin concentration in Tibetan populations.
Understanding these adaptations provides insight into human evolution and potential responses to future environmental challenges.