Ancient DNA Reveals Hidden Human Past: Study
NDTV
The study analysed genetic data from more than a thousand people over the past 45,000 years.
A study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution shed light on unknown aspects of human evolution. The researchers analysed genetic data from more than a thousand people across Europe and Asia. The team of researchers led by Dr Yassine Souilmi, Group Leader at the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA studied the samples of human remains around 45,000 years old.
"It was widely believed the genetics of our human ancestors didn't change due to environmental pressures as much as other animals, due to our enhanced communication skills and ability to make and use tools," Dr Souilmi said.
"However, by comparing modern genomes with ancient DNA, we discovered more than 50 cases of an initially rare beneficial genetic variant becoming prevalent across all members of ancient human groups.
"In contrast to many other species, evidence for this type of adaptive genetic change has been inconsistent in humans. This discovery consequently challenges the prevailing view of human adaptation, and gives us a new and exciting insight into how humans have adapted to the novel environmental pressures they encountered as we spread across the planet."
