Genetic Interactions Between Modern Humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans

SOURCE phys.org
Geneticists and AI experts have found evidence of multiple waves of genetic intermingling and exchange between modern humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans over the past 250,000 years, suggesting a more intimate connection than previously believed.

Key Points

  • First time geneticists have identified multiple waves of modern human-Neanderthal admixture
  • Findings challenge previous genetic data and suggest a more dynamic dispersal of modern humans
  • Proposes an assimilation model where Neanderthals were absorbed into modern human populations

Pros

  • Sheds light on the genetic history of early human groups
  • Challenges previous beliefs about the interactions between modern humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans

Cons

  • Revisions in the population size of Neanderthals may lead to further debates and discussions