Denisovans
Coverage of Denisovans in the Nexus archive.
- Who are the Japanese? Huge DNA discovery rewrites history
Scientists in Japan discovered a new ancestral group linked to the ancient Emishi people, challenging the dual origins theory. The discovery was made by analyzing genomes of thousands of people across Japan. This finding also revealed inherited Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA connected to conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
- Daily briefing: Around seven hours of sleep slows biological ageing
Getting around seven hours of sleep slows biological ageing and prevents disease. Six to eight hours of sleep per day is considered a 'sweet spot'. Research also reveals unexpected interbreeding between Denisovans and Homo erectus.
- Protein in Homo erectus teeth suggests Denisovans gave us some of their DNA
Scientists have found evidence that Denisovans interbred with Homo erectus, and modern humans inherited some of their DNA. This discovery was made possible through the analysis of ancient proteins in teeth. The finding sheds light on humanity's ancestry and the interactions between different human species.
- Enamel proteins from six Homo erectus specimens across China
Researchers analyzed enamel proteins from six Homo erectus specimens found in China, suggesting they form a new genetic monogroup. The study also implies that super-archaic introgression in Denisovans originated from H. erectus. This discovery sheds light on human evolution and genetics.
- Did Homo erectus and Denisovans mate? Tooth proteins hint at ancient trysts
Genetic analysis suggests interbreeding between Homo erectus and Denisovans, two groups of human relatives. The study was published in Nature on May 13, 2026. This discovery provides new insights into ancient human interactions.