Mating with Neandertals reintroduced ‘lost’ DNA into modern humans

More than 46,000 genetic variations come from shared ancient ancestors

Neandertal skull and human skull

LOST AND FOUND  Ancient DNA was lost when some humans (example human skull in background) migrated out of Africa, but the missing genetic heritage was “found” again when modern humans interbred with Neandertals (foreground).

Petr Student/Shutterstock

ORLANDO, Fla.