Scientists Uncover DNA of Neanderthal "Sister" Race

The scientific investigation into the origins of mankind sparks imagination in regard to the newly unearthed finger bone and molar bearing evidence of a previously undiscovered DNA. The excitement has archeological speculation in forward motion.

Before linking this with the ancient mythological island of Atlantus, stop and take a breath. The story of Atlantus is about an advanced civilization that many believed existed out in the Atlantic Ocean, somewhere. Those who hold this mythology dear believe that the Atlantian civilization had technology far beyond what the world has today. Another such fabled place is Lemuria.

Although the discovery of bones in the Denisova Cave is thrilling, the exciting new discovery has a long way to go before any conclusions are final.

Imaginings that could be the basis for some kind of futuristic movie have many people ready to believe the discovery from the Denisova cave in Russia will lead to a wide array of implications.

Yet the analysis of ancient finds through the use of DNA cultures is relatively new. Previously, the bone structure and size gave the clues for further study. Scientists aren't quite sure how far the DNA studies will take them, and will be going forward using a brand new archaeological dimension of studies.

Over a dozen different universities and scientific entities from all over the world are involved in the upcoming research. Archeologists and paleontologists have plenty of work to do.

The Neanderthal characteristics provided a genetic detour and a new name for the recent findings in Russia. Located in a cave the 40,000 year old pinkie bone is believed to be ancestry of Pacific islanders in Papua New Guinea.

The separation of Neanderthals and the more modern specimen named Denisovans also gives rise to controversy in the scientific community

Although it would be fun to go off on a flight of fantasy, scientists are mainly attributing the differences to be defined by location. The Neanderthals lived in western part of Eurasia, whereas the new found species is believed to have inhabited the eastern section of Eurasia.

The two "sister groups" of early humanity must have traveled more than earlier believed, because now it is evident that the Neanderthals and Denisovans must have interbred to some degree. Yet, scientists believe both Neanderthals and newly discovered Denisovans lived separately during most of their existence. Only much later did they unite and inner breed.

Also controversial is the belief that there might be a connection between any archaic DNA and modern humans. No link had existed between Neanderthals and today's modern man. Further statements concur that Denisovans are not related to hominids, either.

In any event, if the scientific process is followed, the conclusions won't be coming very soon. Yet the naysayers are having their voices heard already. The word out is that comparison isn't possible with the available specimen.

Moving forward toward a conclusion is sure to have diversification because of the large group of scientists involved from all over the globe. Moreover, the use of DNA as a basis for archeological scientific studies is relatively new.

ref
National Science Foundation
National Geographic