Health

Ancient Neanderthal DNA Unleashes Surprising Changes in Mice: What Scientists Discovered

2025-06-03

Author: Jessica Wong

Unlocking the Past with Genetic Engineering

In a groundbreaking experiment, scientists injected a 40,000-year-old fragment of Neanderthal DNA into lab mice, leading to astonishing results. Using the innovative CRISPR technique, researchers from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine inserted a variant of the GLI3 gene, known for its role in skeletal development.

Unexpected Transformations in Rodent Skeletons

After the genetic modification, these mice exhibited remarkable changes in their skeletal structure. Notably, some displayed wider craniums and fewer vertebrae compared to their unmodified peers. These alterations don't appear to be random; they reflect distinct skeletal traits that were likely common in long-extinct human relatives.

The GLI3 Gene's Impact on Bone Structure

The modified GLI3 gene subtly influenced how other genes responsible for early bone patterning functioned. Remarkably, the existence of major developmental disruptions—the kind often associated with severe gene mutations—was not observed. Instead, these genetic tweaks appeared to guide the mice toward unexpected skeletal forms.

Genetic Background Matters

The changes in skeletal structure varied across different mouse genetic backgrounds. Some strains demonstrated additional rib formations and unique scoliosis-like angles, while others showed faster skull plate fusion, altering their head shape over time. Interestingly, polydactyly, a common trait linked to significant disruptions in the GLI3 gene, was absent in all modified mice.

A Glimpse into Human Ancestry

The GLI3 variant observed, labeled R1537C, still exists in a small percentage of contemporary human populations outside Africa, suggesting these ancient genetic traits have lingered in our DNA. The findings imply that such archaic variants may have undergone changes that helped define the physical characteristics of ancestral humans.

Why Should We Care About the GLI3 Gene?

The GLI3 protein is significant not just for evolutionary biology but also for understanding various conditions related to limb and craniofacial development. Unlike drastic alterations caused by complete inactivation of the gene, this single amino acid change provides insights into how minor genetic fluctuations can lead to notable anatomical changes.

Researching the Impact of Ancient DNA

By studying extinct human DNA, researchers aim to better grasp our origins and the evolutionary past. While skeletal remains offer some information, live rodent models allow for real-time observation of how specific gene variants affect development. This recent study underscores the lingering influence of ancient DNA on modern organisms.

What Lies Ahead in Ancient Genetics?

As this research unfolds, scientists aim to uncover the adaptive advantages these archaic genetic variants may have conferred upon our ancestors. Initial findings hint at correlations with spinal traits, but further studies are essential for clearer insights.

Ultimately, this innovative research sheds light on our shared evolutionary history, illuminating how even minute changes in our genetic code can shape the human form—both in the past and today.