Dossier
modern humans
Coverage of modern humans in the Nexus archive.
- Neanderthal genes may give modern humans’ muscles a boost
Neanderthal genes may enhance muscle traits in modern humans, and most people carry some Neanderthal DNA.
- Not just Neanderthals: Ghost lineage in Africa left its mark on our DNA
Scientists have identified evidence of a third ancient lineage, referred to as a 'ghost lineage,' that interbred with modern humans in Africa before they migrated out of the continent. This lineage, distinct from Neanderthals and Denisovans, left traces in human DNA detected through advanced analytical techniques, though no physical remains of this group have been discovered yet.
- Nanostructure of tooth enamel casts light on dietary shifts as humans evolved
The nanostructure of tooth enamel in primates, hominins, and modern humans changed as their diets evolved. The arrangement of mineral nanocrystals in enamel reflects dietary shifts during species evolution.