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Study Links Blood Evolution to Neanderthal Extinction

1/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study in *Scientific Reports* suggests that the swift evolution of red blood cell antigens in modern humans may have played a crucial role in the extinction of Neanderthals. With their rare blood types posing deadly risks to newborns, this research unveils the complex genetic tapestry shared by early humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans across Eurasia.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study in *Scientific Reports* suggests that the swift evolution of red blood cell antigens in modern humans may have played a crucial role in the extinction of Neanderthals. With their rare blood types posing deadly risks to newborns, this research unveils the complex genetic tapestry shared by early humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans across Eurasia.