Did You Know!
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Interestingly, some individuals are genetically resistant to the disease. Research has shown that variations in certain genes, such as the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) gene, can provide protection against leprosy. This genetic resistance can contribute to why only a small percentage of people exposed to the bacteria develop the disease.