Genetics of human face begin to reveal underlying profile
Using 3-D facial images with over 7,000 data points, researchers have identified changes in the DNA sequence of European individuals that contribute to variation in facial features. These findings help us better understand human variation and facial birth defects.
Image: Julie White, Penn State
Genetics of human face begin to reveal underlying profile
A ndrea Elyse Messer
December 07, 2020
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. The genetics behind the shape of the human face are difficult to decipher, but now an international team of researchers has connected specific genetic signals with specific areas of the face. They not only can see the signals of normal facial features in the genome, but also hope their work can shed light on craniofacial malformations such as cleft lip and palate.