Researchers Discover Human-Neanderthal Interbreeding and Mental Health Effects

Researchers have discovered that human ancestors interbred with Neanderthals in the past, with remnants affecting modern mental health. A study found traces of this interbreeding in contemporary humans, with non-African populations inheriting up to 2% Neanderthal DNA. Neanderthal brain structures differ from modern Homo sapiens’ rounded brains.

Citing IFL Science, the research analysed brain scans of 40,000 people in the UK, linking hundreds of neurological traits to Neanderthal genetic variants. Researchers identified 28 distinct genomic positions where Neanderthal DNA influences neurological development. Notably, the DAAM1 gene on chromosome 14 shapes 39 morphological features in the occipital and parietal cortices.

The findings suggest some inter-species genetic material benefits mental health, offering protection against schizophrenia. However, the same variants in chromosome 4’s PRDM5 gene increase risks of severe depression, addiction, and personality disorders. Additionally, LC13A3 variants affect white matter structure, potentially causing leukoencephalopathy or episodic neurological crises.