Variants of the melanocortin-1-receptor (MC1R) gene impart the red hair, fair skin, and freckles of a Prince Harry or Wilma Flintstone – and also poorer protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and therefore higher risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma. But a new study published in JAMA Dermatology reveals that MC1R genotype alone more than doubles the risk of melanoma.
The Ginger Gene
Many colorful creatures owe their distinctive phenotypes to MC1R variants, from red pandas and ruffed lemurs, to Golden retrievers and brown cavefish and Kuzakh fat-rumped sheep. Orangutans are an exception – their hue arises from a different gene. Read More
The Ginger Gene
Many colorful creatures owe their distinctive phenotypes to MC1R variants, from red pandas and ruffed lemurs, to Golden retrievers and brown cavefish and Kuzakh fat-rumped sheep. Orangutans are an exception – their hue arises from a different gene. Read More