Neanderthal DNA Influences Human Nose Shape, Study Shows

A gene inherited from Neanderthals may be responsible for the shape of human noses, according to a study that used data from over 6,000 volunteers across Latin America. The researchers identified 33 genome regions associated with face shape, 26 of which they were able to replicate in comparisons with data from other ethnicities. In one particular genome region called ATF3, many people in the study with Native American ancestry had genetic material in this gene that was inherited from the Neanderthals, contributing to increased nasal height. This gene region has signs of natural selection, suggesting that it conferred an advantage for those carrying the genetic material.