What significant impact did Neanderthals have on modern human genetics?

Neanderthals had a significant impact on modern human genetics primarily through interbreeding, which has contributed to genetic variation in contemporary human populations. Genetic studies have shown that non-African modern humans carry approximately 1-2% of Neanderthal DNA, indicating that after modern humans migrated out of Africa, they encountered Neanderthals in Europe and Asia. This interaction resulted in the mixing of genes, which introduced new alleles into the gene pool of early modern humans. These Neanderthal gene variants can influence various traits, including immune response and skin pigmentation.

This contribution enhances the genetic diversity within the human species, allowing for a broader range of adaptability to different environments and diseases. The interaction between Neanderthals and modern humans illustrates the complex web of human ancestry and evolution, underscoring the importance of interspecies relationships in shaping the genetic landscape we see today.