April 11, 2021 • 5 mins
New research out this week finds that redheads have a higher pain threshold than blondes or brunettes because of their skin's pigment!
The research published in science advances looked at how redheads have a genetic mutation which means their melanocytes have a faulty version of a key receptor which is why they can't make the dark pigment needed to get a tan.
Now scientists have discovered a knock-on effect of this is a chemical imbalance leading to a cascade of different hormones which ultimately enhances the effect of pain-blocking opioid receptors.
However, the study didn't poke humans, but instead tested red-furred mice. Nanogirl Michelle Dickinson joined Francesca Rudkin to discuss the research.
LISTEN ABOVE
The research published in science advances looked at how redheads have a genetic mutation which means their melanocytes have a faulty version of a key receptor which is why they can't make the dark pigment needed to get a tan.
Now scientists have discovered a knock-on effect of this is a chemical imbalance leading to a cascade of different hormones which ultimately enhances the effect of pain-blocking opioid receptors.
However, the study didn't poke humans, but instead tested red-furred mice. Nanogirl Michelle Dickinson joined Francesca Rudkin to discuss the research.
LISTEN ABOVE
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