Identify 5 genes that regulate face shapes

Scientists have identified five genes that regulate the shape of the human face. This finding may help to better understand facial abnormalities such as cleft palate as well as investigation of crime based on DNA collected in the field.

Previous scientific studies have shown that genes play an important role in regulating the shape of the face because identical twins are completely identical to DNA. However, scientists do not know what kind of genes the face shape is regulated by.

In the new study, scientists at Erasmus University in Rotterdam (Netherlands) have identified five genes involved in the face shaping process, including three genes that regulate face shape and The remaining two genes are responsible for regulating the face structure.

'Our research marks the beginning of understanding the basic genes that shape the face of humans , ' said Dr. Manfred Kayser, head of research, on LiveScience.

Dr. Manfred Kayser and his colleagues used magnetic resonance imaging to scan the head of 5,388 European volunteers, to create a three-dimensional image of each face. After that, the team analyzed genes with 2.5 million DNA of volunteers to find out which genes affect 48 facial features, the distance between face and nose.

Scientists also used 3,867 images of others to examine and verify the link between genes and human face shapes. As a result, the team identified three genes related to facial shape including PRDM16, PAX3 and TP63 , along with two other genes, C5orf50 and COL17A1, which play a role in facial structure.

This study can be used in forensic investigations, because it is able to provide more reliable evidence than field witnesses, often dependent on memory and feeling. However, Dr. Kayser said that using DNA samples to detect criminals cannot be done in the near future.