Title: Study Shows Evidence of Neanderthal DNA in People with a Common Habit
Scientists at the University of California have discovered a fascinating link between a common human trait and our ancient ancestors, the Neanderthals. According to a study published in Genome Biology and Evolution, individuals who possess a specific habit may have inherited Neanderthal DNA in their genetic makeup.
The research aimed to analyze the genetic composition of Neanderthals who roamed Eurasia for hundreds of thousands of years before their extinction approximately 40,000 years ago. By comparing the genes of these ancient hominids with modern humans, the scientists were able to unveil an intriguing phenomenon.
The findings indicated that Neanderthals and our human ancestors likely interbred, resulting in the transmission of genetic material from both groups to subsequent generations. Specifically, the focus of the study was on 246 circadian genes that regulate the internal body clock. Analysis revealed notable distinctions between Neanderthal and modern human genetics in this particular category.
Interestingly, it was observed that some individuals today have inherited their circadian rhythm from Neanderthals, exhibiting a common attribute: a propensity for being morning people. These individuals tend to function optimally in the morning and demonstrate peak productivity during the early hours of the day.
The research team believes that the changes in circadian genes may have been influenced by environmental factors, such as living at higher latitudes. Neanderthals inhabited regions with changing seasonal light patterns, prompting the need to align their circadian clocks accordingly.
Lead author John Capra, an epidemiologist at the University of California, expressed excitement about the study’s groundbreaking findings. Capra emphasized the significance of combining ancient DNA analysis, large-scale genetic studies, and artificial intelligence in uncovering substantial genetic disparities between Neanderthals and modern humans.
This study provides further insight into the complex genetic interactions between ancient hominids and our species. It also highlights the role of Neanderthals in shaping modern human traits and characteristics. As our understanding of our evolutionary history continues to unfold, each discovery brings us closer to unraveling the mysteries of our past and the complexities of our genetic makeup.
