Articles tagged with Genetic Anthropology
A new study analyzing ancient DNA alongside archaeological data suggests that population movement along Peru's Pacific coast began at least 800 years ago, centuries before the rise of the Inca Empire. Genetic evidence reveals mixed ancestry between people from different coastal regions over subsequent generations.
Researchers from the University of Waterloo have identified four more members of Sir John Franklin's 1845 expedition using DNA samples extracted from skeletal remains. The new discoveries bring the total number of identified sailors to six, providing previously unavailable details about the circumstances and locations of their deaths.
A new study found that the people of Deep Mani represent one of the most genetically distinctive populations in Europe, with many lineages tracing back to the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman period. The research team discovered that present-day Deep Maniot men descend from a single male ancestor who lived in the 7th century CE.
Researchers discovered Yersinia pestis DNA in a 4,000-year-old domesticated sheep from Arkaim, Russia, providing a missing link for the Bronze Age plague's widespread spread. The findings suggest that people, livestock, and an unidentified natural reservoir played a dynamic role in the disease's evolution.
Archaeologists can now map hidden voids such as tunnels and channels using muon tomography, a method that detects changes in soil penetrability to cosmic radiation particles. The technology was successfully demonstrated at the City of David archaeological site in Jerusalem.
A 140,000-year-old child's skeleton from Israel reveals biological ties between Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens through unique morphological traits. The discovery confirms genetic exchanges between the two groups, with up to 6% of modern humans' genome originating from Neanderthals.
A new study discovered that violence can alter human genes for generations, even in grandchildren who never experienced violence themselves. Researchers found epigenetic changes in the genomes of Syrian families affected by the Hama massacre and subsequent civil war.
A new study found that Neanderthals experienced a drastic loss of genetic variation approximately 110,000 years ago, leading to their eventual extinction. The research measured the morphological diversity in semicircular canals, which revealed lower diversity in classic Neanderthals compared to pre-Neanderthals and early Neanderthals.
A genetic study of burial grounds from the Avar period in Lower Austria found that genes and culture did not have to match. The analysis revealed a high number of relatives among the deceased, reconstructing contemporary six-generation-long pedigrees at each site.
A recent study found that both men and women with greater upper body strength tend to have more lifetime sexual partners. Despite theories suggesting men's strength is linked to reproductive success, the research suggests that physical strength may play a role in mating success for both sexes.
The University of Vienna's Department of Evolutionary Anthropology has used modern CSI methods to determine the identity of a 1929 skull found in Ephesos, Turkey. The analysis revealed that the remains belonged to a boy between 11-14 years old suffering from pathological developmental disorders.
A new study using genetic links reveals that chimpanzee populations traded advanced toolsets across generations, demonstrating a cumulative culture. Female migrations played a key role in spreading innovation, with complex tools built upon simpler versions.
A study led by Andrea Migliano from the University of Zurich has discovered previously unknown links between culture, language, and genes among different hunter-gatherer populations in Central Africa. The team found that musical instruments were exchanged long before agricultural populations arrived in the region, suggesting extensive ...
Researchers discovered stone artifacts on the Tibetan plateau that suggest long-distance cultural exchanges between residents and those living on its perimeter. The findings, published in Quaternary Science Reviews, reveal a more complex social dimension than previously thought.
A recent study suggests that the decline in genetic diversity of the Y chromosome between 3,000 and 5,000 years ago was caused by social change, rather than violent conflicts. The researchers analyzed anthropological field data and modeling scenarios to conclude that patrilineal organizations had a significant impact on the Y chromosome.
A new study of early Bronze Age examples from Luxembourg and Britain provides insights into family relationships in prehistoric communities. Genetic evidence reveals that children were buried with their biological mothers, suggesting a patrilineal descent system.
Researchers from the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History analyzed a 160-year-old woolly dog pelt to determine its genetic makeup. The study found that woolly dogs diverged from other breeds up to 5,000 years ago and were genetically similar to pre-colonial dogs from Newfoundland and British Columbia.
A multidisciplinary team reconstructed the genomic history of the Balkan Peninsula during the first millennium CE, finding an influx of genetically similar individuals who spoke Slavic languages. This study sheds light on the cosmopolitanism of the Roman frontier and the long-term consequences of migrations that accompanied the breakdo...
A study led by primatologist Gisela Kopp identified the Horn of Africa as the region of origin for ancient Egyptian mummified baboons. Genetic analysis and comparisons with historical records linked Punt to Adulis, suggesting two names for the same place used at different times.
A new study found that Tsimane women with the APOE-ε4 allele had an increase of 0.5 births and shorter interbirth intervals, allowing them to have about half an additional child. This advantageous effect on fertility could help explain why the allele persists despite negative effects in later life.
Scientists analyzed DNA from fecal samples to study the reproductive behavior of northern muriquis, an endangered primate species. They found that females tend to mate with males having diverse MHC genes, which may provide offspring protection against pathogens.
Research identified three genetic risk factors for Dupuytren's contracture, a condition affecting fingers, that originated from Neanderthal DNA. The study, based on 7,871 affected individuals and 645,880 healthy controls, provides evidence of the intermingling between Neanderthals and modern humans influencing disease prevalence.
A new international study reconstructs the legacy of Chile's largest indigenous community, the Mapuche, through genetics and linguistics. The research reveals distinct Mapuche lineages originated locally and have remained in relative isolation, punctuated by episodes of contact with other South American populations.
A recent study published in Nature challenges traditional views on human origins in Africa, proposing that modern humans emerged from the interaction of multiple populations across the continent. By analyzing genomic data from diverse African groups, researchers found evidence of gene flow and mixing over hundreds of thousands of years.
Researchers found two migration events from northern coastal China to the Americas, one during the Last Glacial Maximum and another during the subsequent deglaciation period. The study also uncovered a genetic link between Native Americans and Japanese people, explaining similarities in Paleolithic archeological finds.
Researchers reconstruct bacterial genomes of Ice Age microorganisms, reviving ancient natural products and discovering new chemical diversity. The team uses synthetic molecular biotechnology to produce chemicals encoded by ancient genes, unlocking the secrets of Earth's past microbes.
A University of South Florida anthropologist has uncovered the first ancient DNA from the Swahili Civilization, revealing African and Asian ancestry patterns. The study challenges centuries-old narratives and restores pride to the millions who identify as Swahili by providing clarity to their heritage.
A new study led by UCL researchers found evidence of ancient empires' impact on migration in Africa, revealing genetic traces from across the continent. The study used DNA data from over 1,300 individuals from 150 ethnic groups, identifying migrations linked to empires like Kanem-Bornu and Aksum.
Archaeologists have discovered the earliest example of angular notched trephination, a type of cranial surgery, in the Ancient Near East. The discovery, made at Megiddo, Israel, suggests that one brother may have had leprosy, making them potentially among the earliest documented examples of the disease.
Scientists recreated ancient human and Denisovan noses to compare their olfactory receptor genes, finding differences in sensitivity to various odors. This research sheds light on how our closest genetic relatives perceived and interacted with their environment.
Researchers advocate for descendant community involvement in ancient DNA research to ensure benefits and risks are shared fairly. Without such guidance, the science can be exploitative, perpetuating colonial practices and harming modern Indigenous groups.
Researchers at Indiana University found that the average age of human conception is around 26.9 years, with fathers averaging 30.7 years and mothers averaging 23.2 years over the past 250,000 years. The study also suggests that the age gap between fathers and mothers has narrowed in recent times.
A study using DNA analysis of a sacrificial spider monkey at Teotihuacàn, Mexico, reveals the earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation in the Americas. The research provides insight into ancient trade networks and suggests that the spider monkey was a diplomatic gift between Teotihuacàn and the Maya civilization.
Researchers found lower calcium and phosphorus concentrations in female primates' bones after giving birth and breastfeeding. The study, which analyzed bone composition over time, shows that reproduction permanently alters the skeleton's dynamic nature.
A recent genetic study has found that three-quarters of the Early Medieval population in Eastern England was comprised of migrants originating from Continental regions bordering the North Sea. These migrants intermarried with local populations, but integration varied greatly from region to region.
A study from UC San Diego finds increased depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in Latina mothers, particularly those in border cities, due to reduced coping resources. The researchers attribute these findings to the increasing hostility of the political climate towards Latinx Americans.
Researchers have discovered the oldest clinical case of Klinefelter Syndrome in a 1,000-year-old skeleton from Portugal, providing new insights into the prevalence of the condition throughout human history. The study used a combination of genetic, statistical, and anthropological analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
A 1,700-year-old genome study from Korea reveals greater genetic heterogeneity among ancient Gaya confederacy individuals compared to modern Koreans. The findings suggest that the Korean peninsula experienced more genetic diversity in the past, with ancient Koreans intermixing within the region.
Whole genome sequences of ancient Uruguayan Indigenous people provide a genetic snapshot of populations before European military campaigns decimated them. The results support the theory of separate migrations into South America, contradicting the idea of a single Native American race across North and South America.
A recent study on the Maniq population found they exhibit high levels of genetic differentiation, similar to other isolated populations. The researchers also discovered that the Maniq retain a unique hunter-gatherer lifestyle and Hòabìnhian-related ancestry, setting them apart from other Southeast Asian groups.
A new genetic study supports the Muwekma Ohlone tribe's assertion that they have lived in the area for over 2,500 years. The research found a thread of continuity between ancient genomes and modern-day Muwekma Ohlone people, affirming their ancestral connection to the San Francisco Bay Area.
Researchers found that hunter-gatherer groups in southwest Ethiopia have a distinct genetic profile and are related to ancestors who lived 4,500 years ago. The study suggests that the transition to agriculture is more complex than previously thought, with varying responses from different groups.
A new genetic study found evidence of South Asian genetic admixture in several mainland Southeast Asian populations influenced by Indian culture. The researchers also discovered close genetic links between languages from different families, supporting an earlier hypothesis about their common origin.
A team of scientists from Germany, Spain, Australia and Japan discovered a new species of branching marine worm, Ramisyllis kingghidorahi, in Japan. The worm has a unique body shape with one head and multiple posterior ends, living inside the internal canals of sea sponges.
A new study suggests that Denisovans arrived on the Tibetan Plateau around 160,000 years ago and contributed to the adaptation of modern humans to high altitudes. Genetic analysis reveals that Denisovans passed on genes such as EPAS1, which improves oxygen transport in the blood, to modern Tibetans.
A new study analyzing 136 ancient Iberian genomes uncovers a genetic mix of local Chalcolithic ancestry and incoming steppe-related ancestry, with additional signals from the Mediterranean and Asia. The data suggests a structured social organization and early state-like formations during the Copper Age to Bronze Age transition.
A new study analyzing ancient Iberian genomes uncovers genetic shifts and social transformations during the Copper Age to Bronze Age transition. The data suggests that incoming steppe-related ancestry mixed with local Iberian Chalcolithic ancestry, but the paternally inherited Y chromosome lineages show a complete turnover.
A recent study using genome-wide data from 82 ancient individuals in central and southern Italy has clarified the origins of the enigmatic Etruscans. The results show that despite their unique cultural expressions, the Etruscans were closely related to their Italic neighbors, with genetic transformations associated with historical events.
A new study generated 137 whole-genome sequences from eight Middle Eastern populations, filling a major gap in international genomic projects. The researchers found 4.8 million previously undiscovered genetic variants, which could hold medical relevance.
A new method for diagnosing celiac disease using saliva has been developed by researchers from the University of the Basque Country. This non-invasive approach can considerably reduce the number of endoscopies needed, making it a useful tool for screening patients suspected of having celiac disease.
Researchers discovered unique genetic signatures linked to protective processes like DNA repair in people who live beyond 105 years. They found that these individuals have more efficient DNA repair mechanisms and a lower burden of mutations in specific genes.
A Stanford University study reveals that traits like skin pigmentation reveal little about genetic ancestry over time, regardless of mating scenarios. The researchers used a mathematical model to understand the decoupling of ancestry and traits, with implications for understanding social meaning of physical traits.
The study of 111 ancient genomes sheds light on the history of the Scythians, a legendary horse warrior culture. Genetic analysis reveals two main sources of origin for nomadic Iron Age groups, with one from the Altai Mountains and another from the western Ural Mountains.
The study confirms Basques' genetic uniqueness is the result of continuous isolation and scarce gene flow since the Iron Age. The language barrier promoted population separation from subsequent interactions.
A recent study found that chimpanzees have been reconnected for extended periods during the most recent maximal expansion of African forests, contrary to previous assumptions. The team's comprehensive sampling and use of rapidly-evolving genetic markers revealed genetic connectivity mirrors geographic distance and local factors.
Researchers analyzed genome-wide data spanning 6,000 years in eastern Eurasian Steppe, revealing a spectacular level of genetic diversity among Xiongnu and Mongol populations. The study found no evidence for lactase persistence, challenging current medical models.
A team of French and German researchers found higher levels of admixture between early Neolithic farmers and local hunter-gatherers in France, with genetic contributions averaging 31% in the south. The study provides new insights into the dynamics of biological interactions during the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition in Western Europe.
A study on DNA data from 110 skeletal remains in West Asia dated 3,000 to 7,500 years ago found evidence of long-term genetic mixing and subtle population movements. The researchers suggest that this gradual change in genetic profile spread across the region over a thousand years, influencing the rise of urbanism.
The study reveals strong genetic resemblance among Bronze Age Southern Levant populations, including a significant Caucasus/Zagros component and Chalcolithic Zagros ancestry. The movement of people from the northeast into the region started as early as 4,500 years ago and continued throughout the Bronze Age.
A new genetic study reveals a complex US population structure, including fine-scale insights into recent history. The findings show diverse patterns among Hispanic/Latino and Asian American populations, shedding light on their ancestral origins and migration patterns.