While there may only be one type of human alive today, this was not always the case. In fact, it is estimated that around eight other human species shared our Earth around 300,000 years ago. We were still sharing caves with the Denisovans until as recently as 15,000 years ago. Then there are the neanderthals, archaic humans that thrived in parts of Asia and Europe, overlapping with our species in many of these regions. Some estimates suggest that we potentially shared the same habitats for as long as 40,000 years! It is therefore, no surprise that our contemporary genome is far from being a solitary strand of homo sapien DNA. That’s right – we could interbreed with other human species and therefore contain traces of Neanderthal DNA.
How Much Neanderthal DNA Do You Have In You?
Some individuals, especially those of European descent, carry up to 4% neanderthal DNA in their genetic makeup. Over time, we have learned that many seemingly unrelated attributes, such as susceptibility to certain diseases and even physical characteristics, can be traced back to the presence of this Neanderthal DNA. Below, you will find seven unexpected traits that may reveal that you have Neanderthal ancestors. Even though none of these traits on their own serve as conclusive proof, they still provide us with a peek at how our ancient ancestors helped shape who we are as a species today.
Skin Issues
Having Neanderthal genes definitely had its advantages back when they still shared this world with us. However, not all of these traits are well-suited to our modern world. For example, Neanderthals suffer from a genetic predisposition to developing actinic keratoses, which is a condition caused by excessive exposure to the sun. This condition is characterized by scaly, rough patches of skin. Though typically benign, these patches may occasionally develop into skin cancer if not treated in time. Neanderthal DNA has also been linked to a higher chance of developing autoimmune conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and lupus.
A Long Nose
Our environment helps shape our physicality, and our noses are no exception. Neanderthals prevailed in Europe during the Ice Age, a time when the environment was dry and cold. In this environment, evolution favored individuals with longer noses, as the air could be effectively conditioned and warmed before reaching the lungs. Therefore, Neanderthals tended to have quite long and prominent noses, allowing each inhalation to be moistened and warmed. This is in contrast to the hot environment of Africa, where a broad and shorter nose would better suit the climate and air. While the Neanderthals produced this adaptation to survive the extreme cold of the Ice Age, it has been passed down to modern humans through interbreeding.
More Likely To Be Addicted to Tobacco
Apparently, having specific Neanderthal genes can make you more susceptible to tobacco addiction. But, how is it possible that the DNA from a species that has never smoked tobacco can influence our modern desire to consume it? It is believed that these genes once played a role in the regulation of certain behavioral motivations or reward systems. These traits would perhaps have been useful for survival in certain environments. Yet, in our modern world, those same traits can potentially result in dependency on various substances.
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Increased Severe COVID-19 Infection Risk
We are still learning how Neanderthal DNA copes with our modern environment all the time. For example, during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, it was found that a specific strain of Neanderthal-inherited DNA was particularly vulnerable to severe cases of the disease. In fact, it was found that a significant 16% of the European population were linked to a higher risk of severe outcomes. It is theorized that the gene may influence one’s immune response, resulting in an extreme reaction that actually worsens the symptoms. This gene may have once served to fight ancient pathogens, but it seems to work against us when faced with new viruses.
Strong Nails and Hair
It is also believed that Neanderthal DNA may be responsible for strong nails and lush hair. Studies have indicated that certain Neanderthal populations were associated with greater keratin production. This protein is essential for hair, nails, and skin health. This specific trait would likely have provided the ancient Neanderthals with an advantage in the harsh climate of the Ice Age. Another trait that still intrigues geneticists today is the link between Neanderthal DNA and red hair.
Smarter Than We Once Thought
Modern researchers have debunked the once-held belief that Neanderthals were not as intelligent as us. In many cases, their brains were actually larger than modern humans’. In fact, we now know that they could make complex tools, were capable of symbolic concepts, and even had a culture. Some researchers believe that a gene called microcephalin was introduced to ur genetics through breeding with Neanderthals. This gene is thought to have played a big role in the development of many of our cognitive abilities. The gene may also have contributed to the development of more efficient and larger brains in our modern species.
A Stronger Immune System
One benefit of Neanderthal DNA is that it creates a resilient immune system. For example, various genetic variants seem to support the body’s ability to combat certain fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections. However, this strengthened immune system does seem to be something of a two-edged sword. While this gene may increase one’s resistance to fungi, it also makes certain individuals more susceptible to allergies. This is because the immune system can become too reactive, responding to even harmless substances, such as pet hair or pollen, as potential threats.
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