New research conducted by UCL suggests that the shape of our noses may be determined by a genetic material inherited from Neanderthals.
The study found that a particular gene, which leads to a taller nose, may have been the product of natural selection as ancient humans adapted to colder climates after leaving Africa.
The researchers used data from over 6,000 people across Latin America, of mixed European, Native American, and African ancestry, to compare genetic information with photographs of their faces.
The study identified 33 genome regions associated with face shape, with one genome region in particular, called ATF3, contributing to increased nasal height.
The researchers found that this gene region has signs of natural selection, suggesting that it conferred an advantage for those carrying the genetic material.
The finding, published in Communications Biology, is the second discovery of DNA from archaic humans affecting our face shape, with the same team discovering in a 2021 paper that a gene influencing lip shape was inherited from the ancient Denisovans.
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
