From Different Parts of the World

The Institute of Eijkman Molecular Biology, Jakarta, made a visit to Rampasasa, Flores, in early 2014, to compare the genetics of the local pygmies to that of other ethnic pygmy groups. "We can simply compare them because the data have been uploaded," said Professor Herawati Sudoyo, vice director of Eijkman Institute. The result of Eijkman research will be published at the end of this year.

Pygmy populations - ethnic groups characterized for their short stature - are actually widespread throughout the globe. The causes of the genetic tendency towards shortness has been linked to various factors, including food scarcity, low levels of calcium in local soil, the lack of ultraviolet light and therefore vitamin D in dense jungle. Vitamin D helps bones build calcium.

April 7, 2015