Neanderthal genes behind shape of human skulls

TheTribune: LONDON: A team of scientists have identified two genes that affect the shape of the modern human''s skull and they originate from Neanderthals.

The Tribune

4 hours ago

Neanderthal Genes Influence Contemporary Humans' Skull Shape, Brain Size

Individuals carrying these ancient ancestors' DNA are more likely to have slightly elongated, rather than rounded, brains.

Smithsonian.com

today

 

 It appears that we — or at least our ancestors — were at least partially responsible for their extinction. About 45,000 years ago, Neanderthal numbers were dwindling. They had become isolated, living in patchy groups across Europe by the time modern humans (Homo sapiens) were making inroads. The two groups would have competed for food, for shelter, for everything they needed to live -- but Homo sapiens was more technologically advanced. It is also thought that a volcanic eruption in Italy and a cooling climate event about 40,000 years ago delivered the last blow to a species that was already on the way out [source: Vergano].
But before Neanderthals left, some mated with modern humans. Traces of Neanderthal DNA show up in humans to this day.