Evolutionary angle: Humans are developing 'extra' arteries in the forearm

According to the latest research by scientists from Flinders University, University of New South Wales, University of Adelaide and University of Zurich, the additional appearance of the median artery on the human forearm (median artery) is one example. clear evolutionary changes in human anatomy.

The middle artery is the main blood vessel that supplies blood to a person's forearms and hands while in the womb. This important artery is formed when we are a fetus, but it gradually disappears when we are born.

The radial artery and the ulnar artery often replace the intermediate arteries during the developmental stages of the womb, so most people die after birth. intermediate artery.

However, according to the latest research from international scientists, more and more cases of the forearm artery are 'retained' in adults. In other words, at present, it's not uncommon for a person to have all three of the forearm arteries.

More specifically, some recent studies indicate that the medial artery can now be found in about 35% of adults - an 'unbelievable' number. Not stopping there, scientists predict that if this trend continues, nearly anyone born in the next 80 years will carry an artery between the forearm and into adulthood.

Evolutionary angle: Humans are developing 'extra' arteries in the forearm Picture 1

Arterial position between the forearm

'The existence of the middle artery has a great benefit, it is an increased ability to supply blood more efficiently, and can be used as an' alternate source 'in surgical cases in other parts of the above. body , " said Professor Maciej Henneberg from the University of Adelaide and the Institute of Evolutionary Medicine at the Zuric University, team member.

"This is clearly micro evolution in modern humans, and the middle artery is a perfect example of how our bodies are still evolving to become more perfect."

The main purpose of the research by Professor Henneberg and colleagues is to investigate the prevalence of the medial artery in adults over the past 250 years, and to clarify the hypothesis that there is an increase in incidence of forearm artery diseases.

'Our research into the proliferation of arteries over generations shows that modern humans are evolving at a faster rate than at any point in the past 250 years or so. Since the 18th century to the present, anatomists have been studying the prevalence of the mid forearm artery in adults, and our research shows it is clearly increasing. '' , Dr. Teghan Lucas , said study co-author.

Accordingly, the rate of possession of the forearm artery in people born in the mid-1880s is 10%, compared with 30% for those born in the late 20th century. This is clearly a staggering increase. in quite a short amount of time, when it comes to natural evolution.

'This increased trend could be due to genetic mutations associated with middle artery development, or maternal health problems during pregnancy, or both.'

If this trend continues, most people will have a mid forearm artery by 2100. Scientifically, if the proportion of people possessing this trait exceeds 50%, it will no longer be another unusual concept.

Kareem Winters

Update 14 November 2020