Scientists identify ‘ghost’ of a long-extinct relative in humans today
Scientists extracted ancient proteins from six Homo erectus teeth in China, revealing a molecular link between the species and Denisovans, with evidence of interbreeding that persists in modern human DNA. The study, published in *Nature*, identified an unknown amino acid variant shared by Homo erectus and Denisovans, suggesting genetic contributions to later human populations.
Researchers have uncovered a genetic connection between Homo erectus and Denisovans by analyzing ancient proteins from six teeth found in China, dating to around 400,000 years ago. The study, led by Chinese geneticist Fu Qiaomei from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, used a non-destructive acid etching method to extract enamel proteins, avoiding DNA extraction due to preservation challenges. The team identified two shared amino acid variants in the specimens, one previously unknown, confirming they belonged to the same species. One variant was also found in Denisovans and some modern humans, indicating interbreeding between Homo erectus and Denisovans, followed by Denisovan-Homo sapiens mating. This explains traces of Denisovan DNA in present-day populations, particularly in Southeast Asia. The findings support the theory of a 'ghost lineage' contributing to Denisovan ancestry, with Homo erectus as a likely candidate. Eduard Pop, a research scientist at Naturalis Biodiversity Center, noted the study strengthens the link between East Asian Homo erectus populations and Denisovans, though further research is needed to confirm protein preservation in Indonesian fossils. Proteins, more stable than DNA, provided critical insights despite their limited detail. The study highlights how ancient proteins can bridge gaps in human evolutionary history, offering new clues about interactions between prehistoric species. Fu’s team emphasized the potential of their less invasive technique for future fossil studies.
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