On February 11th 2016, a study published in the journal Science concluded that Neanderthal DNA can effect everything from the health to the smoking habits of modern humans. The study revealed that humans mated with other hominids after leaving Africa some 50,000 years ago. Researchers say that they have found a Neanderthal genetic variant within the human genome.
The data used in the new study was compiled by the eMerge (Electronics Medical Records and Genomics) network of Vanderbilt University, and included the analysis of the data sets of 28,000 individuals. Genetic researcher Tony Capra of Vanderbilt University said, that after comparing the DNA of Neanderthal fossils to the DNA of the study subjects, he and his team found a link to several associated diseases.
Capra said that he and his team found a Neanderthal DNA variant that is associated with actinic keratosis, which is a condition that causes growths on the skin. They also found a link to an increased amount of blood clotting, which can lead to strokes, pulmonary embolisms, and pregnancy complications. The study also revealed a connection between Neanderthal DNA and some mood disorders, and a possible addiction to nicotine, and depression.
The researchers also found a less than 1% overall risk that a Neanderthal DNA variant is associated with having other disorders such as obesity, respiratory infections, and arteriosclerosis. The evidence in the study makes the case that humans and Neanderthals are more alike than once believed.
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