Scientists Use Ancient Genes to Unravel Human-Neanderthal Interactions 45,000 Years Ago

New York (AP) – Recent genetic research reveals a clearer timeline of when humans and Neanderthals mingled, narrowing it to approximately 45,000 years ago. The findings shed light on a critical chapter of human history and evolution, offering insights into the genetic legacy left behind by these ancient encounters.

Researchers from the University of California Berkeley and other institutions examined ancient DNA to determine the time frame. The study, published in the journals Science and Nature, analyzed human genetic material from key archaeological finds in Europe, including the skull of a woman nicknamed Zlatý kůň (Golden Horse) from the Czech Republic and bone fragments from an early human population in Ranis, Germany.

Unearthing Genetic Clues

The team identified snippets of Neanderthal DNA within these ancient remains. This genetic evidence suggested that human and Neanderthal interactions occurred about 45,000 years ago, a period slightly more recent than previously thought.

“Our genetic data provides a vivid picture of these ancient interactions in increasing detail,” said Priya Moorjani, co-author of the study from UC Berkeley.

In another complementary study, researchers tracked the imprint of Neanderthals in modern human DNA over the last 50,000 years. They discovered Neanderthal genes linked to immunity and metabolism that likely played a crucial role in helping early humans adapt to new environments as they spread out of Africa.

The Neanderthal Legacy in Modern Humans

Neanderthals’ contributions are still evident in our genetic code today. Traits like skin color, hair color, and nose shape can trace their origins back to our extinct human relatives. Additionally, researchers noted that our DNA also contains traces of another ancient group, the Denisovans, who intermingled with humans in Asia.

These findings underscore the complexity of human evolution and the intricate relationships between various ancient populations.

Future Research Directions

The discovery not only provides answers about our shared past but also raises new questions about human identity and evolution. Rick Potts, director of the Smithsonian’s Human Origins program, emphasized the importance of ongoing research to decode the genetic puzzle.

“Who are we? That’s one of the most compelling areas of scientific investigation,” Potts remarked.

With advances in genetic technology, scientists are optimistic about uncovering further details about how these ancient populations influenced the modern human genome.

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Keywords: ancient genes, human-Neanderthal interactions, Neanderthal DNA, genetic research, human evolution, Zlatý kůň, Neanderthal legacy, Denisovans, human origins, genetic studies.