The EPSA1 gene provides a significant competitive advantage to Tibetan populations living at high altitudes, where oxygen levels are lower than at sea level, by enhancing the efficiency of red blood cells in transporting oxygen. This genetic trait likely arose through natural selection, as individuals possessing the EPSA1 gene would have been better adapted to survive and thrive in the harsh high-altitude environment, leading to increased reproductive success. Over generations, this gene became more prevalent in Tibetan populations due to the selective pressures of their environment, while it remained less common in Han Chinese populations who primarily inhabit lower elevations where such adaptations are unnecessary.
the tibetans and han chineese share several genetic traits and dna. however the epsa1 gene, which increases the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen even in low oxygen environments, is only commonly found in the tibetan population that live higher elevation. explain why this gene is only common in tibetan populations from the perspective of the competitive advantage and natural selection. 3 sentences
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