Low prevalence of lactase persistence in Neolithic South-West Europe.

ABSTRACT: The ability of humans to digest the milk component lactose after weaning requires persistent production of the lactose-converting enzyme lactase. Genetic variation in the promoter of the lactase gene (LCT) is known to be associated with lactase production and is therefore a genetic determinant for either lactase deficiency or lactase persistence during adulthood. Large differences in this genetic trait exist between populations in Africa and the Middle-East on the one hand, and European populations on the other; this is thought to be due to evolutionary pressures exerted by consumption of dairy products in Neolithic populations in Europe. In this study, we have investigated lactase persistence of 26 out of 46 individuals from Late Neolithic through analysis of ancient South-West European D

SUBMITTER: Plantinga TS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3376259 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature