New studies indicate that the characteristic may have emerged for over 17,000 years, involving multiple genes and variations still understood
For much of the history of Homo Sapiens, all humans had brown eyes. People with eyes Blues went much later, as explained by the IFL Science.
The blue eyes only emerged after a genetic mutation in the gene HERC2which affects the production of melanin controlled by the gene OCA2.
This mutation does not fully eliminate pigment, but reduces it, making the eyes look clearer – an effect reinforced by the dispersion of light in the iris, a phenomenon known as Tyndall effect.
Origins of Mutation
- Initially, it was believed that this mutation emerged about 6,000 to 10,000 years ago in a single individual.
- More recent studies, however, point to even older origins: about 14,000 to 17,000 years ago, with genetic evidence found in human remains in Italy and Caucasus, including a southern Italy baby with probable dark skin, blue eyes and curly hair.
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There are more eye colors than we think
Nevertheless, eye color genetics is highly complex and involves variations in various genes, not just HERC2 and OCA2. The simplified classification in blue, green/hazelnut and brown ignores the real diversity of tones and shades that each person carries.
An example of this complexity was Cheddar’s analysis, a 10,000-year-old British fossil, who initially generated headlines over blue eyes and dark skin, but, according to the researchers themselves, had eyes closer to a blue-green tone with brown and yellow nuances.
Although some theories say that the blue eyes may disappear, this is unfounded. Because they are a recessive genetic trait-as well as red hair-blue eyes remain in the global population: about 10% of humanity still has them, and millions carry the necessary genes to transmit them for generations.
Collaboration for the digital look
Leandro Criscuolo is a journalist graduated from Cásper Líbero College. He has worked as Copywriter, digital marketing analyst and social networking manager. Currently, he writes for the digital look.
