Our DNA's Ancient Mix: Humans and Neanderthals

Picture this: about 50, 000 years ago, humans and Neanderthals started mixing. This genetic exchange lasted for around 7, 000 years. Today, non-African humans carry about 1% to 2% Neanderthal DNA. This blend might have strengthened our immune systems and influenced our skin colors. But not all Neanderthal genes were welcome. There are parts of our DNA that are completely devoid of Neanderthal traces, suggesting those genes might not have been beneficial or could even have been harmful. Scientists have pieced together this timeline by studying both ancient and modern human DNA. It's like reading a historical book written in our genes. But why are some parts of our DNA Neanderthal-free? And what does this blend say about how humans adapted and spread across the globe? These are questions that inspire us to think critically about our genetic heritage.