Paleontology
Dinosaurs thrived until asteroid impact, study finds
A new study challenges the idea that dinosaurs were declining before their extinction 66 million years ago. Researchers found evidence of thriving dinosaur communities in New Mexico right up to the asteroid strike. The findings highlight distinct regional ecosystems shaped by climate.
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.
Researchers uncover new insights into ancient microbial life
A team of scientists has discovered evidence of microbial activity dating back 3.7 billion years in ancient rocks from Greenland. This finding pushes back the timeline for life's origins on Earth. The research, published in Nature, suggests that life emerged much earlier than previously thought.
Researchers uncover new insights into ancient microbial life
A team of scientists has discovered fossilized evidence of microbial mats from over 2.5 billion years ago, shedding light on early Earth ecosystems. The findings, detailed in a recent study, suggest these ancient communities played a key role in oxygen production. This could reshape our understanding of the planet's biological evolution.
Ancient lead exposure may have shaped human brain evolution
Reported by AI
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.