Adaptive Advantages of Archaic Human DNA

advantages

1. Immune Function:

2. High-Altitude Adaptation:

3. Skin/Hair Traits

   1. Metabolic Adaptations:

1. Immune Function

• Neanderthal-derived HLA alleles (e.g., HLA-C0702) enhanced pathogen resistance in Eurasians.

• Denisovan HLA variants (HLA-A11) improved viral defense in Asians.

1. High-Altitude Adaptation:

• Tibetans’ EPAS1 gene (from Denisovans) regulates hemoglobin production, aiding survival at low oxygen levels.

1. Skin/Hair Traits:

• Neanderthal POU2F3 and BSCL2 influenced keratinocyte function and fat storage, potentially aiding cold climate adaptation.

1. Metabolic Adaptations:

• Denisovan SLC16A11 variant in Mexicans alters lipid metabolism, though its selective advantage remains debated.

Mechanism:

These alleles underwent positive selection (high frequency in specific populations) due to local environmental pressures.

Limitation

: Some archaic variants also introduced disease risks (e.g., Neanderthal SLC6A11 linked to depression).