"The Genetic Mutation That Led to Human Tail Loss 25 Million Years Ago"

A new study suggests that a single genetic tweak 25 million years ago caused humans to lose their tails, allowing for upright walking but also leading to birth defects like spina bifida. The tweak involved the insertion of Alu elements near the TBXT gene, preventing tail growth. While the loss of the tail may have provided evolutionary advantages, it also resulted in neural tube defects. The study sheds light on the genetic basis of tail loss in humans and its potential consequences.