New Research Pinpoints Timeline of Ancient Human-Neanderthal Interbreeding

Studies reveal interbreeding occurred 43,500 to 50,500 years ago, shaping modern human DNA and refining migration timelines.

Two independent studies confirm that interbreeding between Neanderthals and ancient humans occurred within a narrow timeframe as humans left Africa approximately 43,500 to 50,500 years ago.
Genetic analysis shows that 1-2% of the DNA in most non-African populations today originates from Neanderthals, influencing traits like skin pigmentation, metabolism, and immune response.
The research narrows the timeline for human migration into regions such as China and Australasia to less than 50,000 years ago, aligning with archaeological evidence.
Genome sequencing of individuals from Ranis, Germany, and Zlatý kůň, Czechia, reveals a small, isolated population that carried Neanderthal ancestry but left no genetic legacy in modern humans.
The findings underscore advancements in ancient DNA analysis, offering a more detailed understanding of early human interactions and migrations.