Have an Autoimmune Disease? Blame the Black Death

The video explores how historical plagues, particularly the Black Death, have influenced human genetics. It discusses the concept of antagonistic pleiotropy, where genetic variants that once provided protection against infectious diseases now increase susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. The research highlights the evolutionary trade-offs that have occurred over thousands of years, as humans adapted to changing environments and disease pressures. The study of genetic variants like ERAP 2 reveals how these adaptations have shaped our immune responses, offering insights into the complex interplay between genetics and disease.

What are some autoimmune diseases associated with the protective gene variants?

What does the research suggest about the relationship between infectious disease protection and autoimmune diseases?

How have genetic variants changed since the start of the Bronze Age?