As humans adapted to walking on two legs over millions of years, their spine, pelvic structure, knees and feet also changed. A study now published shows that this transformation may have left a more significant mark on the joints than previously thought. In the study published in the journal Nature, genetic changes affecting the development of the human skeleton were examined. Scientists scanned 561,410 DNA changes unique to humans and investigated how they affected the way genes in skeletal tissues work.
THE SKELETON CHANGED WITH UPRIGHT WALKING
Moving on two legs brought about significant anatomical changes in the human body. The structure of the spine, pelvis, knees and feet was reshaped to accommodate standing upright and walking. The aim of the research was to find out whether these changes only change the shape of bones or whether they lead to permanent changes in the cellular properties of skeletal tissues.. Researchers particularly focused on the regulation of genes involved in the development of cartilage tissue.
Striking Difference in Cartilage
One of the most striking findings of the study was related to glycosaminoglycans (GAG), which play an important role in the structure of joint cartilage. These molecules help cartilage retain water, provide flexibility, and help joints carry loads. In the study, it was observed that GAG production in human cartilage cells was significantly suppressed. In experiments, it was determined that the production of some GAG types was approximately 3-4 times lower in human cells.. Researchers state that this genetic change that occurred during the evolution of the human skeleton, on the one hand, contributed to the formation of the unique structure of the skeleton, and on the other hand, may have made the joints more vulnerable to degenerative diseases.
BAD KNEES MAY HAVE VERY OLD ORIGINS
Osteoarthritis, also known as joint calcification, is a disease that is common in people, especially as they get older. New research suggests that susceptibility to this disease may not be explained solely by aging, weight, lifestyle or the wear and tear of joints over the years.. The findings of the research show that some features that affect the structure and functioning of joint cartilage can be traced back to genetic changes in much earlier periods of humans. However, scientists do not draw a direct conclusion that “walking upright caused joint arthritis.” The findings reveal that there may be a connection between genetic changes that shape the human skeleton and susceptibility to joint diseases.
