A fascinating study finds that our gene expression - particularly the expression of our immune genes - changes dramatically from season to season. In fact the expression of about a quarter of the genes they measured varied by season.
Does your health change over the seasons? Take the poll and let us know.
In samples taken during European winter, for example, the team identified greater levels of genes associated with cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases in the blood. The researchers say this may explain why cardiovascular conditions and autoimmune diseases - such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis - are more prevalent in winter.
One gene with less expression in winter is a gene that suppresses inflammation. - "As such, the team says that in winter, individuals with inflammation-related conditions would reach the "threshold" at which symptoms worsen a lot sooner, and they suggest drugs that target the cause of inflammation could lead to more effective treatment in the winter months."
Does your health change over the seasons? Take the poll and let us know.
Last edited: