What Are Supergenes?

Supergene is a part of chromosomes that is conveyed undamaged by generations, due to intimate genetic links.   These are intimately connected genes that influence a particular characteristic, or a chain of interconnected traits. Genes engaged in a particular function are normally grouped collectively to develop a supergene.

Effects Of Supergenes

Human beings constantly obtain and forward signals, orally and by other means such as body language, from groups and people with whom we interact. Every communication which is received by our brain has some effect to cause some change, which may be negligible or considerable. Similar message may have different effects on each individual, which can be due to multiple reasons, including the similarity or otherwise of the existing supergenes and genetic linkages. Signals received from individuals, whom we consider intelligent and reliable, or with whom we have genetic linkage, will be easily acceptable, while those from unknown personalities will have insignificant effect.  

Supergenes in humans develop swiftly, while behavior of animals is different due to which they change in long durations and consequently cannot endure major changes in environment or temperature. Human beings possess considerable genetic linkage to adapt themselves according to the prevalent conditions without many complications. This is the main cause of their efficient and fast evolution.

Influence Of Supergenes On Group Behavior

Study of supergenes and genetic linkage reveals the logic concerning approach of individuals in a group with each other, and also with other groups. By a close analysis of our environment in the social sector, and impact of other groups on our capability to disseminate our supergenes, we are able to comprehend the unique actions such as violence, bravery and leadership. Transmission of supergenes is the motivating strength in the strategy of human evolution. When some groups of people are disassociated due to social reasons, generally new environment is not easily acceptable due to which complications occur. The primary reason for such crisis is the unnatural merger of dissimilar supergenes, which is due to the genetic linkages.

Studies Concerning Supergenes

• Study was conducted on supergenes in Albert Einstein College of Medicine New York, by a group led by Nir Barzilai Director in this college. He identified a supergene that has a function in long life beyond 90 years, and also prevention of loss of memory.
• Persons with gene variant CETP VV appeared to age gradually, and could defend   themselves against age reducing disorders, including heart disease.
• The team examined people who were 95 years or more, and it was revealed that people with this gene variant had twice the probability of superior functioning of brain, clear thoughts, and retention of present events in the memory.
• Another study was conducted and 124 people were observed for 8 years. It was discovered that a person who did not acquire dementia, was 5 times more probable to possess this gene, compared to the persons with this disease.
• It was also observed that persons, in which this gene existed, had a lesser tendency of clogged arteries.