Michelle Dickinson: Research using mice discovers why redheads have a higher pain threshold

New research out this week finds that redheads have a higher pain threshold than blondes or brunettes because of their skin's pigment!The research published in science advances looked at how redheads have a genetic mutation which means their melanocytes have a faulty version of a key receptor which is why they can't make the dark pigment needed to get a tan.Now scientists have discovered a knock-on effect of this is a chemical imbalance leading to a cascade of different hormones which ultimately enhances the effect of pain-blocking opioid receptors.However, the study didn't poke humans, but instead tested red-furred mice. Nanogirl Michelle Dickinson joined Francesca Rudkin to discuss the research. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.