Ancient Denisovan Genes Boosted Cold Weather Adaptation, Linked to Modern Mental Health Disorders
Study reveals the SLC30A9 gene, inherited from ancient Denisovan ancestors, aids zinc regulation to help with cold climates but contributes to mental health disorders in modern non-African populations.
- The SLC30A9 gene, inherited from ancient Denisovan ancestors, played an essential role in cold weather adaptation. The gene allowed for more efficient zinc transport into cells and boosted mitochondrial energy production, which helped ancient humans withstand frigid temperatures.
- Denisovans, an ancient human species, interbred with Homo sapiens approximately 600,000 years ago, passing down the SLC30A9 gene. This gene is still present in the DNA of many non-African populations today, providing a genetic link to our prehistoric relatives.
- Despite its beneficial role in cold weather survival, the Denisovan SLC30A9 gene is associated with several modern mental health disorders. People inheriting this gene variant are more prone to conditions like depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and autism.
- The Denisovan SLC30A9 gene is more commonly found in people of Asian heritage, whereas it is less prevalent in individuals of African descent. This is thought to be a consequence of early human migration patterns, with the out-of-Africa migration leading to heightened interaction and crossbreeding between Homo sapiens and Denisovans in Asia.
- The genetic variant affects the transport of zinc within the cell, creating a new balance and potentially offering a metabolic edge in colder environments. However, these changes in zinc balance and regulation might also increase the susceptibility to various psychiatric conditions. Further studies on animal models could clarify the specific mechanisms behind this susceptibility.
Futurism 
The Telegraph 
