Scientists found two mysterious ‘ghost’ ancestors hiding in our DNA
Researchers at UC Berkeley have identified DNA evidence of two previously unknown 'ghost' human ancestors in modern human genomes. This discovery supports the theory that human evolution involved complex interbreeding between multiple archaic hominin populations.
Why it matters
This research refines our understanding of human origins and the genetic history of our species, highlighting the role of ancient interbreeding.
Two previously unknown human relatives left traces of their DNA in people alive today, adding another layer to the genetic legacy already inherited from Neanderthals and Denisovans. The discovery reinforces a growing view of human evolution as a long history of encounters and interbreeding among many related hominin populations.
Earlier studies had found signs that Homo sapiens mixed with archaic humans beyond Neanderthals and Denisovans. Now, researchers at UC Berkeley have identified specific regions of the modern human genome that came from these unidentified ancestors and estimated when the interbreeding occurred.
The team made the discovery using a new method that examines hundreds of present-day human genomes and reconstructs ancient genealogical connections among their DNA sequences.
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