Simultaneous Viral Exposure and Protection from Neanderthal Introgression

Publication date: 4 October 2018Source: Cell, Volume 175, Issue 2Author(s): Emilia Huerta-Sánchez, Fergal P. CaseyIn this issue, Enard and Petrov present intriguing results on the possibility of genetic traces left behind in our genomes from adaptation to past viral epidemics that may have been initiated by interaction with Neanderthal archaic hominins. The work highlights how powerful infectious agents can act as a selective force to shape our genetic makeup.
Source: Cell - Category: Cytology Source Type: research