Ghost African lineage leaves mark on human DNA

Scientists have confirmed that extinct hominin groups, now lacking any living descendants, have left a lasting genetic legacy in modern humans. Recent genomic analyses of ancient DNA extracted from fossils in Eurasia and the Americas reveal that interbreeding events with these archaic populations occurred as early as 50,000 years ago, embedding their DNA into the genomes of contemporary people worldwide.

The data show that Neanderthals contributed roughly 1–2 % of the DNA in non‑African populations, while Denisovans supplied up to 5 % in some Oceanic and East Asian groups. These genetic fragments are concentrated in genes related to immune response, skin pigmentation, and high‑altitude adaptation, indicating that the introgression provided adaptive advantages during human migrations into new environments. The research also identified previously unknown archaic lineages in the Americas that may have contributed to the genetic diversity of indigenous peoples.

These findings underscore the complex tapestry of human ancestry and highlight the importance of ancient DNA in reconstructing evolutionary history. Future studies aim to map additional introgressed regions and assess their functional impact, offering deeper insight into how extinct relatives shaped the biology of modern humans.