By comparing the hearts of humans and other great apes, a research team from Swansea University and UBC Okanagan has discovered new information on the evolution of humans. Even though humans and other great apes shared an ancestor, humans nevertheless developed bigger brains and the capacity to walk upright—possibly for hunting purposes.
Researchers compared the left ventricle of human hearts to those of chimpanzees, orangutans, gorillas, and bonobos using echocardiography. They discovered that, in contrast to the more trabeculated hearts of big apes, the left ventricles of humans have smoother, compact muscles.
Bryony Curry, a PhD candidate, observed that non-human great apes have four times more trabeculation near the apex of their hearts, where the difference is most obvious. Additionally, the scientists used speckle-tracking echocardiography to measure cardiac movement.
Better cardiac function is associated with reduced trabeculation in human hearts, according to Bryony. The hypothesis that human hearts developed to satisfy the greater demands of our particular lifestyle is supported by this. Because of their larger brains and high levels of physical activity, which need more blood flow, humans require a more efficient heart. This permits heat loss through the skin, which aids in human cooling as well.
This research shows that our larger brains and increased physical activity are what drove the evolution of the human heart’s special form, which includes a smoother left ventricle and improved function. These discoveries provide fresh perspectives on human development and how our hearts have changed to suit our changing needs.
