Has human evolution stopped in the last 10,000 years?

No, a new study of ancient DNA suggests that human evolution has not stagnated and has been significantly shaped by natural selection in the past 10,000 years.

What did the study of ancient DNA reveal?

The study analyzed 15,836 ancient human remains and identified 479 genetic variants that appear to have been favored by natural selection over the last 10,000 years.

When did the mutation for celiac disease emerge?

A mutation that is a major risk factor for celiac disease appeared approximately 4,000 years ago, according to the new genetic analysis.

Home / Science / Ancient DNA Reveals 10,000 Years of Human Change

Ancient DNA Reveals 10,000 Years of Human Change

15 Apr

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Summary

Study analyzed 15,836 ancient human remains.
Identified 479 genetic variants favored by selection.
Celiac disease risk factor emerged around 4,000 years ago.

Ancient DNA Reveals 10,000 Years of Human Change

New research suggests that human evolution has not stagnated in the past 10,000 years, challenging prior scientific consensus. A comprehensive analysis of 15,836 ancient human remains has uncovered 479 genetic variants that appear to have been favored by natural selection.

This groundbreaking study, published in Nature, indicates that thousands more genetic variants may have also experienced evolutionary pressure. For instance, a mutation linked to celiac disease, which affects an estimated 80 million people worldwide, emerged approximately 4,000 years ago. Scientists posit its rise is due to natural selection, even with its associated health risks.