21/02/2025
You and the Neanderthal – How Are You Connected?
Neanderthals (Homo neanderthalensis) were another species of humans who lived in Europe and Asia from around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. They were larger in body size than modern humans (Homo sapiens), had higher foreheads, greater physical strength, and were well-adapted to surviving in extreme cold conditions. But don’t mistake them for savage brutes!
Like Homo sapiens, Neanderthals could make fire, craft tools, and even paint cave art. They also buried their dead, just as early humans did. However, as modern humans began migrating out of Africa, around 40,000 years ago, Neanderthals gradually disappeared from the Earth.
Would you believe it if we told you that Neanderthals are part of your ancient lineage?
Well, you should—because it’s true! All humans living outside of Africa carry between 1% to 2% Neanderthal DNA. This means that as Homo sapiens migrated out of Africa, they encountered Neanderthals and interbred with them.
Scientists discovered this by extracting ancient DNA from Neanderthal fossils and comparing it to modern human DNA through advanced sequencing techniques. The amount of Neanderthal DNA varies among individuals—some have more, some have less. These genes influence your skin color, hair texture, immune system, fat storage, and even whether you're a morning person!
Are you an early riser? If so, Neanderthal genes might be playing a role!
Want to know how much Neanderthal DNA you carry?
Find out with a GenoConnect DNA Kit! You can order the kit from [genoconnect.co](https://genoconnect.co) or Amazon. **No blood sample required! Simply collect a cheek swab sample yourself, register your kit, and schedule a pickup. A courier will collect your sample right from your doorstep and deliver it to a certified lab for analysis. It’s that simple!
Now, you too can discover your Neanderthal ancestry!