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Story summary
- Ancient hominids, including Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, were exposed to lead before the Industrial Revolution, evidenced in 73% of teeth.
- Natural sources such as volcanic ash and contaminated water may have driven this exposure and influenced brain development.
- Modern humans developed the NOVA1 gene variant, providing resilience to lead's effects and enhancing communication.
- This advantage may have helped Homo sapiens outcompete Neanderthals around 40,000 years ago, contributing to extinction.
