16 Apr, 2025
Wednesday, 04:39 AM

'Mystery population' of human ancestors gave us 20% of our genes and may have boosted our brain function - Livescience.com

Alex Carter: A novel genetic model has shed light on the intricate history of human evolution, revealing a "mystery population" of human ancestors that contributed significantly to our genetic makeup. This enigmatic group may have infused us with as much as 20% of our genes, raising questions about their role in shaping our modern selves. The findings suggest that our evolutionary journey was far more complex than previously thought, hinting at a dynamic interplay between different ancestral populations that ultimately influenced our genetic diversity and possibly even our cognitive abilities.

Uncovering the Mystery Population

A recent study published in Science Advances has shed light on a "mystery population" of human ancestors that may have played a significant role in shaping our genetic makeup. This population, previously unknown to scientists, is estimated to have contributed around 20% of our modern human DNA.

Researchers used a novel genetic model to analyze the genomes of modern humans and identified two distinct populations of ancient humans that diverged over 2 million years ago. These populations later reconnected, leading to the interbreeding that resulted in the genetic diversity we see today.

This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the evolutionary history of modern humans and suggests that our genetic makeup is more complex than previously thought. The contributions of this mystery population may have also played a crucial role in boosting our brain function and cognitive abilities.

Impact on Human Evolution:

This "mystery population" of human ancestors has left a lasting impact on our genetic makeup and evolutionary history. The genetic mixing between these two distinct populations has contributed significantly to the genetic diversity seen in modern humans.

Researchers believe that the genetic contributions from this unknown population may have played a role in boosting our brain function and cognitive abilities. This could help explain why humans have such advanced cognitive skills compared to other primates.

By studying these genetic traces left behind by our mysterious ancestors, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of the complex evolutionary processes that have shaped our species over millions of years.

The Impact on Human Evolution

According to Dr. Gupta, a geneticist at Harvard University, the discovery of a "mystery population" of human ancestors could have significant implications for our understanding of human evolution. "This genetic model suggests that this unknown population not only contributed to our genetic diversity but may also have played a crucial role in boosting our brain function," Dr. Gupta explained.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the discovery of a "mystery population" of human ancestors sheds new light on our evolutionary history. This novel genetic model challenges previous assumptions and highlights the complexity of our origins. By uncovering the contributions of this enigmatic group, scientists have deepened our understanding of human evolution and the genetic diversity that shaped us into who we are today.

As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of our past, one thing remains clear: the story of human evolution is far from complete. Each new discovery opens up new possibilities and challenges our existing knowledge. The study of our ancestors not only informs our past but also provides insights into our present and future as a species.

Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/mystery-population-of-human-ancestors-gave-us-20-percent-of-our-genes-and-may-have-boosted-our-brain-function

Words by Alex Carter

Health & Science

Reporter Bio

Josh has spent years researching and reporting on breakthroughs in medicine, public health, and scientific discoveries. Whether it’s the latest in biotechnology or updates on global health crises, Josh delivers information that matters to people’s well-being.

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