A Surprising Heritability Discovery (Image Credits: Sciencenews.org)
Scientists have identified genetic factors that partly explain why certain individuals venture great distances from their birthplaces.[1][2]
A Surprising Heritability Discovery
Researchers conducted a genome-wide association study on genetic data from roughly 250,000 people in the United Kingdom. They measured distances between birthplaces and current residences to pinpoint patterns in DNA linked to long-distance migration. The analysis revealed that inherited variants accounted for about 5 percent of the differences in how far participants had moved.[1] These findings held even after researchers adjusted for influences like education and health status.
The team, led by neurogeneticist Jacob Michaelson at the University of Iowa, identified 20 specific genetic loci predominantly involved in neurodevelopmental processes.[2] Behavioral geneticist Ivan Kuznetsov, who was not involved in the work, noted, “There is something in our genome that affects our decisions” to relocate far away.[1]
Brain Circuits Fueling Exploration
The migration-linked genetic variants concentrated in genes active within excitatory neurons of the brain. These cells contribute to essential functions such as learning, planning ahead, and evaluating risks under uncertainty. Such cognitive traits likely encouraged early humans to explore unfamiliar territories.
Study authors connected these genetics to broader patterns of cognition and risk tolerance. Participants carrying more of these variants showed tendencies toward adventurous behaviors. Evolutionary geneticist Vasili Pankratov highlighted the challenges in this field: “Whenever you enter the social behaviour genetics space, things become very complicated.”[3]
Traces in Ancient Human Genomes
To test endurance over time, investigators turned to ancient DNA from over 1,300 individuals who lived up to 10,000 years ago. They inferred birthplaces from genetic ancestry and compared them to burial sites. The same modern migration variants successfully predicted how far these ancient people had traveled during their lifetimes.[1]
Further analysis showed these variants increased in frequency across generations, a sign of natural selection at work. Humans who roamed farther gained advantages as populations expanded into new lands. This pattern persisted well beyond prehistoric eras, influencing movements even after major historical shifts like the Age of Exploration.
Economic Ripples from Mobile Genes
Extending the research to contemporary effects, the team examined U.S. data from more than 3,000 adults across 222 counties. They calculated an average “migration score” based on DNA for each area. Counties that drew residents with higher scores experienced quicker income growth compared to others.[1]
While exploratory and not proving causation, the observation suggests long-distance migrants bring innovative ideas, skills, or risk-taking propensities that energize local economies. Modern migration thus echoes ancient drives, blending biology with opportunity.
Key Takeaways
- Genetics explain roughly 5% of variation in migration distance from birthplace.
- Variants tie to brain development in excitatory neurons for cognition and risk assessment.
- Ancient DNA confirms these traits predicted mobility over 10,000 years and rose via selection.
Human history turns on movement, and this research illuminates a biological thread weaving through it – from nomadic forebears to today’s global flows. Genetics offer only a piece of the puzzle, alongside culture and circumstance, yet they reveal why some embrace the horizon. What role do you think DNA plays in your own travels? Share in the comments.
