Unveiling Ancient Liaisons: Neanderthals and Humans Interbred 47,000 Years Ago, Research Reveals

Neanderthal genes observed in modern humans likely infiltrated our DNA during a nearly 7,000-year interbreeding phase starting around 47,000 years ago, according to recent research. This revelation stems from an analysis of over 300 human genomes spanning 45,000 years, suggesting a single major interbreeding event during that period. As humans ventured out of Africa, encountering Neanderthals likely occurred in western Asia, fostering the exchange of genetic material. The persistence of Neanderthal DNA in modern humans highlights its impact on traits such as skin color, metabolism, and the immune system, providing evolutionary advantages. While the estimated timeline of interbreeding reshapes our understanding of human dispersals, intriguing questions remain regarding human-Neanderthal dynamics and potential bidirectional gene flow.