Researchers report that Tibetans carry a unique genetic variant called TPAS1 that is linked to low hemoglobin levels - which in turn is linked to resistance to mountain sickness. The gene may help explain why sherpas acclimate more easily to Everest climbs, and could eventually help intensive-care patients as well. Earlier research has pointed out other gene variants linked to Tibetans' oxygen-processing efficiency. Excelsior!