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New research suggests Neanderthals’ unique blood type might have played a role in their decline. A study published in *Scientific Reports* found that Neanderthals carried an RhD blood group, which is rare among modern humans and incompatible with each other. This antigen caused severe health issues, like hemolytic disease of the newborn, leading to high mortality rates.
Blood types are determined by antigens on red blood cells, including proteins and sugars. The ABO system groups people into four categories based on these antigens. Neanderthals also have an Rh factor, which is critical for blood compatibility. However, their antigen variations didn’t evolve like those of early humans who diversified quickly after leaving Africa.
Over 80,000 years, Neanderthals’ red blood cells remained unchanged due to inbreeding and limited diversity, while early humans evolved them rapidly. This genetic divergence could explain their isolation and eventual extinction. The study highlights how genetic factors influence human evolution and extinction.
This research adds to our understanding of why Neanderthals went extinct, emphasizing the importance of studying ancient genomes to uncover humanity’s past.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/neanderthals-blood-type-may-help-explain-their-demise-new-study-finds