Ancient Genome Tracks Rapid Turn in Human Evolution

A massive ancient-DNA study analyzing data from more than 10,000 ancient individuals, plus thousands of published and modern genomes, finds that directional natural selection was more active and occurred more recently than previously believed. The analysis identifies 479 gene variants that rose or fell in West Eurasia over the last 10,000 years, with selection intensifying after farming. Although such selection explains only about 2% of genetic changes, many variants tie to traits seen today—like light skin, immune responses, and disease risks—and some gene groups influenced polygenic traits. Caution is urged in linking ancient variants to modern traits, and results are not limited to West Eurasia. The researchers have made data and methods public to extend work to other populations and time periods, with implications for health, disease understanding, and potential gene-therapy considerations.