Neanderthals and Denisovans, our ancient human cousins, continue to leave their mark on us, shaping our genetics and impacting our lives in ways we are just beginning to understand. Recent advances in genetic research are shedding light on the profound legacy these ancient humans have left behind, influencing our fertility, immune systems, and even our response to diseases like COVID-19.
Scientists, armed with improved techniques for extracting and interpreting ancient DNA, are making remarkable discoveries about the traits inherited from our prehistoric relatives. These revelations have linked Neanderthal DNA to conditions such as autoimmune diseases, the structure of our noses, and various human characteristics. In one intriguing experiment, researchers even introduced a gene from Neanderthals and Denisovans into mice, resulting in larger heads and an extra rib.
Genetic evidence shows that different populations carry varying amounts of Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA. Some African populations have very little Neanderthal DNA, while those of European or Asian descent may have 1% to 2%. In contrast, Denisovan DNA is most prevalent in people from Melanesia, constituting 4% to 6% of their genetic makeup.
This genetic inheritance has both benefits and drawbacks. Neanderthal DNA has been linked to autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease and rheumatoid arthritis. When Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa, they encountered new diseases in Europe and Asia to which they had no immunity. Interbreeding with Neanderthals and Denisovans provided a quick fix to our immune systems, but it can result in hypersensitivity or autoimmunity in some individuals today.
Moreover, genes inherited from these ancient cousins are associated with various human characteristics, including skin and hair color, behavioral traits, skull shape, Type 2 diabetes, pain perception, and even fertility. For example, some women in Europe carry a Neanderthal receptor for the hormone progesterone, associated with enhanced fertility and fewer miscarriages.
In a surprising revelation, researchers found that a genetic risk factor for severe COVID-19 is inherited from Neanderthals, while another set of DNA variants from Neanderthals has the opposite effect, protecting against severe COVID-19.
While much remains to be discovered about our genetic legacy from Denisovans, some research suggests their genes play a role in fat metabolism and adaptation to high altitudes, as seen in Tibetan populations.
These revelations challenge the traditional narrative of Homo sapiens as superior to our ancient relatives. Neanderthals and Denisovans were sophisticated, with complex behaviors, art, tools, and even makeup and jewelry. The key to our survival may have been our adaptability and ability to thrive in various environments, ultimately outlasting our cousins.
Human evolution is not solely about survival but also about interaction and mixture with our ancient cousins. As science continues to advance, researchers expect to uncover more evidence of our interconnectedness with Neanderthals and Denisovans, redefining how we perceive them in the tapestry of human history.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
