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Neanderthal DNA Linked to Autism Risk, Study Reveals

7/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study reveals that specific Neanderthal DNA variants may heighten the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Conducted by researchers from Clemson University and Loyola University New Orleans, the findings indicate these ancient genes affect brain connectivity in visual-processing networks, hinting that traits linked to autism could have once offered survival benefits for Neanderthals, shaping modern human neurodevelopment.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study reveals that specific Neanderthal DNA variants may heighten the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Conducted by researchers from Clemson University and Loyola University New Orleans, the findings indicate these ancient genes affect brain connectivity in visual-processing networks, hinting that traits linked to autism could have once offered survival benefits for Neanderthals, shaping modern human neurodevelopment.