Genes rock the fossil record

Article Abstract:

The theory that mankind evolved from different groups of hominids over one million years ago has been challenged by genetic research which indicates that most species of Homo sapiens developed in Africa and migrated elsewhere. Studies of mitochondrial DNA show little mutation from race to race in modern man, and that the mutations that do exist only go back 200,000 years or so. The 'Out of Africa' theory accounts for recent finds of Homo sapiens that are 100,000 years old. Linguistic research also supports this theory.

Cover Story, Human beings, Human genetics, Humans, Human evolution, Emmigration and immgration, Linguistic paleontology

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The island-hopping gene

Article Abstract:

The discovery of a rare gene mutation common to both Melanesians and Polynesians has led scientists to theorize that the Pacific was colonized from the West by Melanesians. The mutation allows people to become carriers of a blood condition called alpha-thalassaemia, which is often associated with malaria. The Oxford Institute traced the mutation to Melanesians after finding it in Polynesians with no exposure to malaria. This discovery may discredit Thor Heyerdahl's theory that the Pacific was colonized East to West.

Physiological aspects, Mutation (Biology), Mutation, Thalassemia, Melanesians, Polynesians

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Genetic patchwork of an island nation

Article Abstract:

Recent research into the DNA of human populations reveals the distribution of the Viking descendants in the UK. Norwegian traces are found in the Lake District of England. Another discovery reveals ancient European roots on Orkney Island which were diluted by Scandinavian additions. Such genetic traces help to confirm the historical geography of migrations.

History, Human population genetics, Human geography, Vikings

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