Ancient DNA Sheds Light on Human-Neanderthal Interbreeding Timeline

A study by the Max Planck Institute reveals genetic links between early modern humans and Neanderthals in Europe, focusing on sites in Czechia and Germany. The research shows a shared lineage between individuals from Zlatý kůň and Ranis, who were part of a distinct group that diverged early after migrating from Africa. Despite their African ancestry, these populations left no genetic legacy in later Europeans. The study highlights their mobility and interactions, including an older Neanderthal admixture event, but no recent interbreeding with Neanderthals.