The mastery of fire marked a unique milestone in the history of humanity and its hominid ancestors. Unlike other species, humans have faced an increased risk of burns throughout their lives. According to the authors of a recent study, fire played a crucial role in human evolution, acting as a driver of natural selection and partially shaping our biology.

The Role of Fire in Human Development

Control over fire, which has existed for more than a million years, ensured the success of the human species. The ability to use fire allowed people to spread across the planet, survive in harsh climates, diversify their diets, and simplify the creation and use of tools, along with many other advantages.

However, close interaction with fire also had its downsides—humans were exposed to high temperatures on a scale rarely found in nature. Animals typically avoid fire and, as a result, rarely suffer burns. In contrast, most people experience burns at least once in their lives and are much more likely to survive them than any other animal.

Genetic Adaptation to Burns

Researchers from Imperial College London, whose article was published in the journal BioEssays, discovered signs of genetic adaptation to burns in humans that distinguish us from other primates and mammals. They believe that frequent burns became a factor in natural selection, influencing how our bodies fight infections and heal tissues after contact with fire.

By comparing the genomic data of primates, scientists identified unique adaptive mutations in several key human genes associated with burn response. These genes regulate healing processes, inflammation, and other immune reactions. Such genetic variants likely promote faster tissue recovery and better infection control—serious complications after burns, especially before the advent of antibiotics.

Evolutionary Consequences and Modern Risks

According to scientists, natural selection favored traits that helped people survive frequent minor burns. These traits include a pronounced inflammatory response at the burn site, which helps prevent infection and speeds up the healing of damaged tissues.

However, an excessively strong inflammatory reaction can be dangerous in cases of severe fire-related injuries. This explains why extensive burns can lead to serious complications, disability, or even death.

Impact on Medicine and Understanding Burns

The findings of this study may influence burn research, the development of treatment methods, and our understanding of why some people experience complications after burns while others do not. Genetic differences also explain why results from animal burn studies often prove ineffective when applied to humans.