How do genetics play a role in eye color changes as we age? #eye color #genetics #biology
Have you ever wondered how a person’s eye color can seemingly change over time, from muddy green or hazel to bright blue? In basic biology lessons, we learn that eye color is determined by genetics, but how does this factor in as we age? Let’s explore this fascinating topic together.
Genetics and Eye Color
In basic biology, we’re taught about the “big B little b” genetic combination that determines eye color. However, this doesn’t explain the phenomenon of eye color changes as we age.
Natural Aging Process
As we age, the pigment in our eyes can change, leading to variations in eye color. This natural process can result in a shift from murky green or hazel to a striking blue hue.
Environmental Factors
External factors such as sunlight exposure, diet, and even emotions can also play a role in eye color changes. These influences can interact with genetics to produce unique variations in eye color.
The Mystery of Eye Color Changes
While genetics provide a foundation for understanding eye color, the actual mechanisms behind color shifts are still a mystery. Scientists continue to study this fascinating phenomenon to uncover the complexities of eye color changes.
So, the next time you notice someone’s eye color transforming before your eyes, remember that it’s all part of the natural aging process influenced by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Let’s embrace the beauty of these changes and marvel at the wonders of science and nature.
I don’t know the specifics for eye color and geriatrics, but eye color isn’t actually a Mendelian genetic trait (meaning that it’s controlled by a single allele pair). It’s actually multi-factorial, the idea of eye color as a Mendelian model trait is a common myth in biology.
I’ve heard of people’s eyes going from blue to green or brown as they age, but not the reverse. (It can take some time for the pigment to develop.)
The simple answer is multiple genes affect eye color and there is also some incomplete dominance at work (BB and Bb don’t always yield the same color; Bb can look more green.)
Eye color is much more complicated than discussed in highschool biology.
It’s true that there’s a more or less mendelian pattern for brown vs light eyes, but there are far more one gene involved in eye color.
That said, it’s very common for infants and children to have lighter coloring (of their eyes, but also their hair and skin) than they will as older children or adults.
Because of that, I wouldn’t be surprised by someone having blue eyes as a baby and hazel eyes as an adult. I am a little surprised to hear about someone going from hazel eyes to blue- was there injury? Or perhaps an autoimmune condition such as vitiligo?