DNA study uncovers third ancestral group in Japanese population

May 14, 2026

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A large-scale genetic analysis has identified a previously overlooked third ancestral group in Japan, challenging the long-held dual origins theory. Researchers linked the new ancestry to the ancient Emishi people of northeastern Japan. The findings also connect archaic DNA from Neanderthals and Denisovans to modern health conditions.

Scientists at RIKEN's Center for Integrative Medical Sciences sequenced the whole genomes of more than 3,200 people across seven regions from Hokkaido to Okinawa. The study, published in Science Advances, revealed that Japan's population descends from three major ancestral sources rather than two. Jomon hunter-gatherer ancestry reached 28.5 percent in Okinawa but only 13.4 percent in western Japan, while the newly identified Emishi-related component concentrated in the northeast.

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DNA study supports human arrival in Australia 60,000 years ago

Scientists have found genetic evidence that modern humans reached New Guinea and Australia around 60,000 years ago, backing the long chronology over more recent estimates. The international team, led by researchers at the University of Huddersfield and the University of Southampton, analyzed nearly 2,500 mitochondrial DNA genomes from Aboriginal Australians, New Guineans, and Southeast Asian populations. Their work suggests early migrants used at least two routes through Southeast Asia.

Ancient DNA reveals Neanderthal group in Polish cave

April 22, 2026 በAI የተዘገበ

Researchers have analyzed mitochondrial DNA from eight Neanderthal teeth found in Stajnia Cave in Poland, reconstructing the genetic profile of a small group that lived there around 100,000 years ago. The study, published in Current Biology, marks the first such multi-individual genetic picture from a single site north of the Carpathians. The findings show genetic links to Neanderthals across Europe and the Caucasus.

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Ancient teeth proteins suggest Homo erectus interbred with Denisovans

South America

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Ancient DNA uncovers 12,000-year-old growth disorder in Italian burial

Study indicates male Neanderthals fathered most human-Neanderthal offspring

Genetic analysis suggests that interbreeding between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens involved mostly male Neanderthals and female modern humans. Researchers examined sex chromosomes to uncover this pattern, which occurred during multiple periods after humans left Africa. The findings point to mating preferences as the likely explanation, though experts call for more evidence.

Human skulls have become rounder over past century

April 30, 2026 በAI የተዘገበ

Skulls of Japanese people have grown rounder with wider jaws and other changes in the past 100 years, according to a new study. Researchers attribute the shifts to improvements in health, diet, and environment rather than genetics. The findings challenge traditional references for modern human anatomy.

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