Not just Neanderthals: Ghost lineage in Africa left its mark on our DNA
Summary
Scientists have found evidence that humans interbred with a third unknown human relative before modern humans left Africa. This "ghost lineage" left traces in our DNA that are different from the well-known Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA.Key Facts
- Humans have DNA from Neanderthals and Denisovans, relatives who lived tens of thousands of years ago.
- New research shows a third, unidentified human relative also contributed DNA to modern humans.
- This unknown lineage is called a "ghost lineage" because no direct genome has been found.
- Researchers used advanced computer methods to analyze patterns in human genomes.
- They looked for DNA sections that are very old but have fewer changes from mixing, showing they came from a separate group.
- The study was led by scientists based mostly at Berkeley.
- The method tested can also identify known Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA.
- This discovery helps us understand more about human ancestry and early human interactions in Africa.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
