Biology/El Alto, Bolivia
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Question
In what way are the inhabitants of El Alto, Bolivia different from other people?
Thanks
Hi Yiangos, thanks for your question.
El Alto, Bolivia is one of the highest inhabited places in the world. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Alto)
As such, its population has adapted to living at high altitude (http://anthro.palomar.edu/adapt/adapt_3.htm).
These adaptations include increased numbers of red blood cells, increased lung size and capillary networks. These changes accommodate the body to decreased atmospheric pressure at high altitude.
Is this what you wanted to know? For more information just visit the websites I gave you.
FM Rollwagen, PhD
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Answers by Expert:
Florence M Rollwagen
Expertise
I can answer questions in biology, microbiology and immunology on the undergraduate or graduate level. I can also address medical and health concerns regarding alternative medicine, autoimmune diseases (lupus, MS) liver disease and intestinal problems.
Experience
I have over 20 years experience in research and teaching at the medical/graduate level, and 5 years teaching college biology and microbiology. My expertise is in microbiology and immunology, specifically the biology of cytokines and soluble immune response modifiers. I also carried out original research in blood substitutes and shock/trauma.
Organizations
American Association of Immunologists (AAI)
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Publications
Journal of Experimental Medicine, Journal of Immunology, Cytokine, Shock, Experimental Hematology
Education/Credentials
BS biology 1966
MS biology 1968
PhD immunology 1979
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