Subscribe now

Humans

Oldest known human viruses found hidden within Neanderthal bones

Genetic analysis of 50,000-year-old Neanderthal skeletons has uncovered the remnants of three viruses related to modern human pathogens, and the researchers think they could be recreated

By James Woodford

14 May 2024

Neanderthals were affected by some of the same viruses as modern humans

S. ENTRESSANGLE/E. DAYNES/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Genetic sequences from three common viruses that plague humanity today have been isolated from the remains of Neanderthals who lived more than 50,000 years ago.

Marcelo Briones at the Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil, says it may be possible to synthesise these viruses and infect modern human cells with them in the lab.

Read more

Ancient viruses buried in our DNA may reawaken and cause illness

“These Jurassic Park-like viruses could then be studied for…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features

Popular articles

Trending New Scientist articles

1

Einstein was right about the way matter plunges into black holes

2

Genetic mutation gives cats a 'salty liquorice' coat colour

3

Quantum internet draws near thanks to entangled memory breakthroughs

4

Dozens of stars show signs of hosting advanced alien civilisations

5

Frozen human brain tissue can now be revived without damage

6

Who were the enigmatic Sea Peoples blamed for the Bronze Age collapse?

7

How overcoming negative attitudes to ageing can make you live longer

8

Sunlight-trapping device can generate temperatures over 1000°C

9

Everything you need to know about semaglutide weight loss drugs

10

Keto diet may accelerate organ ageing