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Hair-Curling Gene Found

Findings may pave way for a hair-straightening pill

By Emily Rauhala,  Newser User

Posted Dec 8, 2009 11:45 AM CST

(Newser) – Scientists have discovered the root of curly hair, potentially paving the way for a hair-straightening pill. But don't throw out your hot irons yet—the findings, published in the American Journal of Human Genetics, will probably first be applied to the field of forensics. Understanding curls could help cops catch criminals based on DNA left at the scene, the lead researcher tells the Telegraph.

The research focused on a gene called trichohyalin. In a study of 8,000 twins of European descent, the Australian team found this particular gene leads to curly hair, possibly by changing the balance of amino acids. The findings will also make it possible to predict whether a baby will have straight or curly hair. Although, that is not a tough task—90% of babies inherit a parent's curls.

Australian researchers have discovered a gene linked to curly hair.
Australian researchers have discovered a gene linked to curly hair.   (Shutterstock)
Scientists have found the gene that gives this little tyke a headful of curls.
Scientists have found the gene that gives this little tyke a headful of curls.   (Shutterstock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 10 comments
cognitivefilter
Dec 9, 2009 9:54 AM CST
TECHMOLOGY WILL BE OUR DEMISE
chicken
Dec 8, 2009 10:13 AM CST
That's like asking a botanist to cure cancer. People specialize, get over it.
chicken
Dec 8, 2009 10:12 AM CST
My nana said that eating steak fat will give you curly hair. I love steak fat. I have curly hair.

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