Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Oldest hominin DNA sequenced

Researchers have successfully extracted and sequenced the oldest hominin DNA to date from a 400,000-year-old fossil from Sima de los Huesos in Northern Spain. The mitochondrial genome sequence reveals that the ancient hominins are related to Denisovans and share a common ancestor with them about 700,000 years ago.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 4, 2013

Ancient genome reveals its secrets

A study led by Svante Pääbo describes the Denisovan genome, revealing genetic variation was extremely low, suggesting a small population that grew quickly. The research documents genetic changes between modern humans and their archaic relatives, including genes associated with brain function and nervous system development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateAug 30, 2012

Shared genes with Neanderthal relatives not unusual

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that people in East Asia carry genetic material from Denisovans, a previously unknown archaic human relative. This finding suggests that gene flow between humans and Denisovans occurred on the Asian mainland, contradicting previous theories about hybridization events.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2011

Many roads lead to Asia

Scientists discovered that Denisova hominins interbred with modern humans at least 44,000 years ago, contributing genetic material to populations in Southeast Asia and Oceania. The study suggests that there were at least two migration waves, contradicting previous assumptions about human settlement in the region.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 26, 2011