A sneak peek at the high altitude adaptation of the Ladakh populations

The physiological response to high-altitude stress (for individuals living at 2,400m and above sea level) has been evident. However, recent advances in genomics have allowed us to explore the molecular genetic basis of these adaptive responses and their relationship with physiological responses. In the current study, we focused on thirteen biological parameters to understand the adaptive response to the high altitude of populations living across regions of Sakti, Korzok, Hanle, Aryan and Zanskar valleys of Ladakh and to understand the variation between and across individuals. Interestingly, we found a negative correlation between haemoglobin levels and partial oxygen pressure, thereby testifying to higher haemoglobin levels as an adaptive response in these individuals. The lipid profiles, including cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and HDL levels, varied significantly across the five regions studied. Notably, individuals from Sakti Valley showed higher LDL (>140) and cholesterol values. These variations in health parameters and lipid profiles may be attributed to diet and altitude adaptations specific to the region. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the adaptations of highlanders living at different altitudes in the Ladakh region. The findings can have implications for better understanding the molecular mechanism of physiological responses of humans to high-altitude environments.