Landmark ancient-genome study shows surprise acceleration of human evolution
6 hours ago
- #Ancient DNA
- #Human Evolution
- #Natural Selection
- Massive ancient DNA study indicates human evolution accelerated in the last 10,000 years, particularly with the advent of agriculture.
- Researchers identified 479 gene variants in ancient Western Eurasians that evolved via directional natural selection, impacting present-day health.
- Key adaptations include genes for lactose persistence, immunity (e.g., linked to MS, HIV, and tuberculosis), and physical traits like skin tone and male baldness.
- The study overcame challenges like genetic drift by analyzing consistent frequency changes across populations and time periods.
- Evolutionary changes intensified during the Bronze Age, reflecting profound lifestyle shifts from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies.