New Study Reveals Denisovan and Neanderthal Interbreeding, Oldest Genome Sequenced

Jul 11, 2024, 01:04 PM

A recent study has revealed new insights into the interactions between Denisovans and Neanderthals. Scientists have sequenced a second high-quality Denisovan genome, the oldest human genome sequenced to date. The analysis by Peyrégne and colleagues indicates that this Denisovan male inherited 5% of his genome from an ancient, previously unknown population of Neanderthals. This finding, based on a conference presentation, suggests multiple interbreeding events between Denisovans and Neanderthals around 200 ka. Additionally, it supports the notion that Neanderthals did not truly go extinct but were absorbed into the modern human population.