Researchers from KU Leuven, the University of Pittsburgh, Stanford University, and Penn State University have pinpointed 15 genes that influence our facial features by identifying specific DNA locations. "Stanford collaborators found these genes active during facial development in the womb," notes KU Leuven's Peter Claes, a specialist in computational image analysis. "We also linked gene variants to variations in timing, location, and expression strength." Seven of these genes relate to nose shape, a key advance for forensics, Claes explains. "Skulls lack noses due to soft tissue and cartilage decomposition, challenging reconstructions. DNA from remains could soon predict nose form more accurately."
The four institutions will scale up with larger datasets. Claes cautions: "Full face prediction from DNA isn't imminent—we've more genes to find, plus age, environment, and lifestyle shape faces." Looking ahead, he adds: "This technology links medical images like brain scans to genes, offering genetic insights into brain structure, function, and disorders like Alzheimer's."
