Scientists are warning that climate change and rising global temperatures could have unexpected effects on human health, particularly for people with certain rare genetic conditions such as some forms of epilepsy. New research by the Epilepsy Society suggests that heatwaves and extreme temperature shifts may aggravate underlying neurological conditions in individuals who carry specific genetic variations.
The study, led by neurologist Sanjay Sisodiya of University College London, explores how temperature-sensitive gene variants may influence the way proteins function inside the human body. Researchers say these genetic differences, known as “calortypic variants,” can affect how well certain proteins work when exposed to temperature changes.
Scientists explain that many proteins operate within a narrow temperature range. Even small fluctuations in heat or cold can disrupt their stability and function. For some people, this means that extreme weather conditions could worsen symptoms of genetic diseases or potentially trigger them for the first time.
Heatwaves may reveal hidden health vulnerabilities
Using extensive genetic datasets from individuals with rare diseases, researchers identified people carrying temperature-sensitive gene variants. Their analysis suggests that rising temperatures may influence how certain genes behave, potentially worsening underlying health conditions.
In some cases, individuals may live with a mild genetic condition that causes few or no symptoms under normal circumstances. However, during periods of extreme heat, those symptoms may become more pronounced. Researchers say this highlights a potential “hidden vulnerability” as global temperatures continue to rise.
Neurological conditions are increasingly recognized as being sensitive to climate-related stressors such as heat exposure and extreme weather events. Scientists believe that climate change could therefore have broader implications for neurological health than previously understood.
Gene variants may increase sensitivity to extreme heat
Professor Sisodiya explained that many people carry genetic variants that normally cause no health problems. However, some of these variants may increase vulnerability to environmental stress, particularly heatwaves.
He compared the phenomenon to a muscle injury that only becomes noticeable during intense physical activity but remains undetected during normal daily routines. Similarly, certain genetic variants may remain harmless most of the time but could cause difficulties when the body experiences temperature extremes.
Researchers say further studies are now underway to determine how many people might carry these temperature-sensitive variants. Understanding their prevalence could help doctors provide better guidance to patients during extreme weather events.
Research could help improve health planning
Scientists hope the findings will help doctors identify individuals who may be more vulnerable during heatwaves and other climate-related events. This knowledge could support improved medical care, early warning strategies, and public health planning as global temperatures continue to rise.
The research also highlights a growing scientific interest in how climate change interacts with human biology. While climate change is widely discussed for its environmental and economic impacts, researchers say its influence on genetics and disease patterns may become an increasingly important area of study in the future.