Research

GENETICS OF HIGH ALTITUDE ADAPTATION 

Our research focuses on high altitude biology states about the adaptive qualities of individuals residing at the utmost higher elevation for regions such as the Andes, the Himalayas, and the Ethiopian highlands and how they developed unique ways to cope with low oxygen levels, known as hypoxia along with other physiological parameters. Studying how individuals are distributed at different altitudes provides valuable insights. Unlike changes in latitude, altitude changes influence factors like temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. These factors affect metabolic rates and other biological processes. In essence, high-altitude environments offer a unique context to understand how living organisms adapt, both in the short term and over generations, to the challenges posed by low oxygen levels and changing environmental conditions.

GENETICS OF FINGERPRINT PATTERNING 

Dermatoglyphics are unique patterns of ridges and furrows on the skin's surface, particularly on the palms, fingers, soles, and toes.These patterns, commonly known as fingerprints, start to develop around the 10th week of gestation, originating from specialized areas called volar pads.By the 14th week of gestation, primary ridges define the future fingerprint pattern at the epidermal-dermal junction.Fingerprint patterns are categorized into three main types: arches, loops, and whorls.Arches have ridges that enter from one side and exit from the other without completing a circuit.Loops are the most common pattern, with ridges entering from one side, looping, and exiting from the same side.Whorls have circular or spiral patterns and at least one ridge that completes a circuit.