Denisovan Genome Bombshell: Three Populations and Hidden Interbreeding Revealed by a Second Denisovan Genome

Short summary

This episode of the New Scientist podcast examines the discovery of a second Denisovan genome, revealing at least three distinct Denisovan populations and unexpected interbreeding with unknown ancient humans and Neanderthals. The discussion extends to Epstein-Barr virus and its links to lupus and other autoimmune conditions, the accelerating pace of electric vehicle technology with Formula E approaching Formula One performance, and an interview with Bill Bryson about updating A Short History of Nearly Everything. The conversation weaves together human evolutionary history, virology, and cutting edge engineering to illustrate how our understanding of science continually evolves.

Overview

The episode centers on a bombshell study that produced a complete Denisovan genome from a 200,000 year old molar found in Denisova Cave, Siberia. This new genome suggests at least three discrete Denisovan populations with distinct histories. The oldest Denisovan lineage appears in the cave remains, replaced thousands of years later by a second population, and a third population is identified from other remains outside the cave that later interbred with modern humans. The findings also indicate interbreeding between Denisovans and an unidentified Neanderthal group and with another archaic human lineage that diverged long before modern humans and Denisovans split. The episode situates Denisovans within a complex bush of human relatives and highlights how genetic data reshape our understanding of early human interactions.

Epstein-Barr and autoimmune disease

The show then shifts to immunovirology, explaining that Epstein-Barr virus infects the vast majority of adults and remains dormant in the body. New findings show the virus can alter memory B cells to trigger immune cascades that contribute to lupus, and possibly other autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis. The guests discuss how the ubiquity of dormant viruses complicates our understanding of disease risk, the potential for vaccines to target virus-driven cancers, and the broader implications for the human virome and immunity.

Formula E and the future of transport

Alec Loon discusses how Formula E is closing the gap with Formula One in terms of power and speed, thanks to high performance electric vehicles and 800 volt architectures that enable faster charging and stronger acceleration. The conversation covers the limits of battery energy density, race strategy, and the potential trickle-down benefits for consumer EVs, including stronger acceleration and quick-charging capability driven by Formula E innovations.

Bill Bryson on the history of science

Bill Bryson joins to reflect on updating A Short History of Nearly Everything after two decades. He discusses the evolution of our knowledge, including discoveries of Denisovans and other archaic humans, the thrill of interviewing scientists, and the decision to focus on how science progresses rather than political forecasts. The dialogue also reveals Bryson’s perspective on the human stories behind scientific advances and the enduring mystery of what we still do not know.

Takeaways

Across genetics, virology, and engineering, the episode underscores how new data can overturn assumptions, reveal hidden diversity in ancient populations, and drive technological breakthroughs with everyday implications. It also emphasizes the importance of credible science communication and curiosity about the unknown.