The human innate immune system is the first line of defence from pathogen microorganisms. Among genes that control this part of our immune system, three genes have been identified deriving from Neanderthal and Denisova genomes. Neanderthal and Denisova hominins are directly related to Homo sapiens (our species). Our ancestors interbred with these species, leaving traces in our DNA. Genes inherited from Neanderthals and Denisovians gave selective advantage in the pathogen defence, but they are also involved in the onset of many allergies.
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eTwinning project "Funology in Science"