Human Evolution
Ancient lead exposure may have shaped human brain evolution
A study of fossil teeth reveals that prehistoric hominids were exposed to lead for at least 2 million years, potentially influencing brain evolution. Modern humans appear to have adapted better to the toxin than relatives like Neanderthals, according to research using ancient samples and brain organoids. However, some experts question the extent of this exposure and its evolutionary implications.
Archaeologists uncover Paleolithic tools on Turkey's Ayvalık coast
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New research reveals a once-submerged land bridge along Turkey's Ayvalık coast that may have enabled early humans to migrate from Anatolia to Europe. Archaeologists discovered 138 Paleolithic tools across 10 sites, challenging traditional theories of human dispersal. The findings, published in the Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology, suggest the region served as a key passageway during the Ice Age.
Genetic change protected early humans from lead's evolutionary impact
Researchers have uncovered evidence that ancient hominids were exposed to lead as early as two million years ago, potentially influencing brain evolution. Modern humans possess a unique genetic variant in the NOVA1 gene that shielded them from lead's toxic effects on language development. This discovery, published on October 15, 2025, suggests it gave Homo sapiens an advantage over Neanderthals.
Genetic mismatch may have hindered Neanderthal-human hybrids
A new study suggests that interbreeding between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens created a genetic incompatibility that increased pregnancy failure risks in hybrid mothers, potentially contributing to Neanderthals' extinction. This mismatch involved differences in the PIEZO1 gene affecting oxygen transport in blood. The finding could explain the absence of Neanderthal mitochondrial DNA in modern humans.