This interview-style podcast explores the connection between red hair and pain perception. The host interviews Professor Jeff Mogil, who discusses the MC1R gene's role in determining hair color and its surprising influence on pain sensitivity. Studies show that individuals with the MC1R gene variant (predominantly redheads) may experience pain differently, requiring lower doses of opioid pain relief but higher doses of anesthesia. However, the research highlights inconsistencies, with some studies showing increased pain tolerance in redheads and others showing increased sensitivity, depending on the type of pain and the methodology of the study. The podcast concludes by emphasizing that not all redheads possess the MC1R variant, and some blondes may share similar pain responses.
