Scientists have long been fascinated by the secrets of longevity, with some creatures living for centuries. A giant tortoise named Jonathan is believed to be over 200 years old, while a Greenland shark can live up to 400 years. But it’s not just marine life that holds the key to human aging.
The study of ancient DNA has revealed surprising insights into the shared history between humans and Neanderthals. Ancient bone fragments found in a medieval castle cave belonged to a mother, daughter, and distant cousins who lived around 45,000 years ago. Their genomes showed evidence of Neanderthal ancestry, indicating that early Homo sapiens mated with Neanderthals 1,500 years earlier.
This discovery sheds light on the complex history between humans and our ancient relatives. The study also highlights the importance of protecting rare species like the monarch butterfly, whose populations have declined drastically due to habitat loss and climate change.
As scientists continue to unravel the secrets of longevity, they may uncover new insights that could be applied to human aging. With creatures like the Greenland shark offering clues, researchers are working tirelessly to understand the genetic makeup behind their remarkable lifespans. Could these discoveries hold the key to extending human life?
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/elusive-creature-deep-live-centuries-160042374.html