Genetic and Phenotypic Differentiation of an Andean Intermediate Altitude Population

Background: Highland populations living permanently under hypobaric hypoxia have been subject of extensive research because of the relevance of their physiological adaptations for the understanding of human health and disease. In this context, what is considered high altitude is a matter of interpretation and whilst the adaptive processes at high altitude (above 3000 m) are well documented, the effects of moderate altitude (below 3000 m) on the phenotype are less well established. Methods: In this study we assessed physiological and anthropometric characteristics as well as genetic variations in two Andean popul…