Ancient DNA Tracks 10,000 Years of Selection - Summary - MDSpire
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Ancient DNA Tracks 10,000 Years of Selection

Large dataset shows widespread genetic changes shaping modern traits and disease risk

  • May 12, 2026

  • 3 min

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A comprehensive analysis of ancient human genomes involving 15,836 individuals reveals that many genetic variants linked to modern traits and disease risk have been shaped by ongoing natural selection over the past 10,000 years. Researchers utilized a novel statistical method to detect directional selection, revealing that hundreds of genetic variants have been influenced by selection pressures, particularly in genes related to immune function and cardiometabolic traits. The study highlights how selection has impacted genetic variation across traits over time, offering insights into the evolutionary context of genetic risks associated with diseases.

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Ancient DNA Tracks 10,000 Years of Selection

  • May 12, 2026

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