Explained the transformation of people into “vampires”
Defects in synthesis of one of the substances in the composition of hemoglobin, which could be the basis of legends about vampires, can have genetic causes. To this conclusion came the scientists from France and the United States,
To this conclusion came the scientists from France and the United States, article article which was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
To produce this substance is heme, the liver and the bone marrow needs to produce specific compounds, porphyrins. Any genetic disorder affecting their production, affects the level of heme. The most common form of violations of heme synthesis, porphyria, — erythropoietic of protoporphyria (EPG) — makes the skin of the patient very sensitive to light. Prolonged being outdoors gives them painful blisters.
People with EPP suffer from chronic anemia, which they quickly get tired and very pale, but because of sensitivity to light they can’t go outside during the day.Barry Putin of the authors, a doctor from Harvard medical school
“Even on a cloudy day UV radiation is enough to cause blisters and skin lesions in the open areas, ears and nose” — said one of the authors, a doctor from Harvard medical school Barry PAHs.
Now patients with EPP transfused blood with ample hemoglobin, which helps to curb some of the symptoms of the disease. In ancient times, a similar effect may have been achieved by drinking the blood of animals and appearing out of the premises only at night. This behavior could lead to the emergence of legends about vampires.
The study authors found genetic mutations that can cause EPP. They hope that in addition to explaining the nature of the disease, their work will point to new methods of treatment.