Did humans influence the genetic makeup of our Neanderthal cousins?
In short: While we often focus on the DNA modern humans inherited from Neanderthals, genetic exchange was a two-way street. This video explores the evidence for gene flow moving from our ancestors into Neanderthal populations.
Genetic research indicates that the relationship between modern humans and Neanderthals was not a one-sided inheritance. Instead, gene flow occurred in both directions, meaning Neanderthals also acquired DNA from human ancestors.
Understanding this bidirectional exchange challenges the idea that Neanderthals were isolated from the lineage that eventually became modern humans. It highlights a complex history of interaction and interbreeding between these groups.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: There’s Something Weird About Neandertal DNA And It Might Be Our Fault
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