Neanderthals, our extinct close relatives, may have contributed to the development of modern-day diabetes, according to a recent study.

Researchers have found that specific gene variants that increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes are more prevalent in people of European and Asian ancestry, and may have originated from Neanderthals.

The study

The study, published in the journal Cell, analyzed genetic data from over 800,000 people from around the world, including both people with and without diabetes.

The researchers found that four specific gene variants that increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes are more commonly found in people of European and Asian ancestry.

The study also identified that these gene variants are located in the same genomic regions where Neanderthal DNA is found.

Neanderthals are known to have interbred with modern humans tens of thousands of years ago, and as a result, many people today carry traces of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes.

What does this mean?

The study’s findings suggest that Neanderthals may have contributed to the development of type 2 diabetes in modern humans.

However, the researchers caution that there are likely many other genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of the disease.

It’s important to note that not all people with Neanderthal DNA carry the specific gene variants associated with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, people without Neanderthal DNA can still develop the disease.

The bigger picture

This study is just one example of the many ways in which our ancient relatives have influenced our modern-day biology.

In recent years, researchers have used advances in genetics to uncover the ways in which Neanderthals and other ancient human species have influenced traits such as skin color, hair texture, susceptibility to disease, and more.

The study could also help scientists better understand the genetic underpinnings of type 2 diabetes, a disease that affects more than 400 million people worldwide.

Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to type 2 diabetes is crucial for developing better prevention and treatment strategies.

Conclusion

Overall, the study suggests that our ancient relatives, the Neanderthals, may have played a role in the development of type 2 diabetes in modern humans.

However, the findings must be taken in the context of many other genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the disease.

While the study sheds light on the complexities of our evolutionary history, it could also have real-world implications for people with type 2 diabetes.

Identifying genetic factors associated with the disease could help with early diagnosis and the development of more effective treatments.