New Study Reveals Extensive Genetic Intermingling Between Neanderthals and Modern Humans

Research shows Neanderthals were absorbed into human populations through multiple waves of interbreeding over 200,000 years.

Genetic analysis indicates Neanderthals had 2.5% to 3.7% modern human DNA in their genomes.
Interbreeding occurred in at least two distinct periods: 200,000-250,000 years ago and 100,000-120,000 years ago.
The Neanderthal population was smaller than previously estimated, aiding their assimilation into human groups.
Modern human DNA impacted Neanderthal genomes, leading to higher genetic diversity in their population.
These findings challenge the notion of Neanderthals as a separate, isolated lineage.