Neanderthal DNA Linked to Higher Muscle Mass in Modern Humans
A new study finds that people carrying a Neanderthal variant of the growth hormone receptor tend to have more muscle, adding about 271 grams on average.
Scientists examined genetic differences between modern humans and Neanderthals and pinpointed a unique alteration in the Neanderthal growth hormone receptor, a protein that regulates bodily growth. In cell-culture experiments, the Neanderthal version prompted greater cellular expansion than the contemporary human receptor. Analyzing data from more than a million people, the team observed that individuals with at least one copy of this ancient receptor have about 271 grams additional muscle, with a dose-response effect for those with two copies.
The trait appears most common in South and East Asian groups, affecting as many as 24 percent of those populations. Philipp Kanis, the study’s first author, highlighted the rare alignment of laboratory and population evidence, while coauthor Miriam Berreiter noted that genetics complement, but do not replace, physical training.
Why it matters
The finding shows how ancient DNA still influences modern human physiology, offering insight into muscle development and evolutionary biology.
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