Neanderthal DNA affects modern human traits and health

metro.co.uk

Modern humans may carry up to 4% Neanderthal DNA, influencing traits like pain sensitivity, hair thickness, and disease susceptibility. This genetic inheritance stems from interbreeding between early humans and Neanderthals. Research suggests Neanderthal DNA can affect physical characteristics, including nose length, and influence health, such as increasing COVID-19 severity or providing resistance to other infections. Some studies also link it to smoking and intelligence. Neanderthals, our extinct relatives, lived in Eurasia and interbred with early humans. Their DNA continues to affect modern humans, with some traits potentially beneficial in the past but less so today.


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Neanderthal DNA affects modern human traits and health | News Minimalist