Recent research by scientists from Germany, the UK, and the US has uncovered detailed insights into the interbreeding between early modern humans and Neanderthals, shedding light on the genetic legacy they left behind.

Key Findings

Timeline of Interaction: Neanderthals and early modern humans coexisted for a brief period, spanning a few thousand years, before Neanderthals became extinct approximately 40,000 years ago.

Evidence of Interbreeding: Genetic analysis of over 300 modern human genomes, encompassing 50,000 years of history, revealed interbreeding between the two species.

Today, about 1-2% of the genome of non-African populations carries Neanderthal DNA, a testament to their shared history.

Neanderthal Gene Legacy: Certain Neanderthal genes appear more frequently in modern humans, indicating their potential role in survival. Examples include:

• Immunity Boost: Resistance to viruses, including coronaviruses.
• Skin Pigmentation: Adaptations to varying climates.

About Neanderthals (Homo Neanderthalensis)

Biological Relationship: Neanderthals were the closest extinct relatives of modern humans (Homo sapiens), coexisting for tens of thousands of years.

Habitat and Timeframe:

• Lived between 400,000 and 39,000 years ago.
• Their range extended across Europe, southwest Asia, and parts of central Asia.

Physical Characteristics: Notable features included

• A large nose for humidifying and warming cold air.
• A strong, double-arched brow ridge.
• Relatively short, robust bodies, possibly an adaptation to colder climates.