"Link Found Between Denisovan DNA and Higher Risk of Mental Illnesses, Study Finds"

Gene variants inherited from the Denisovans, an extinct human species, may increase the risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. Modern humans interbred with Denisovans, resulting in traces of their DNA in some populations today. A gene called SLC30A9, inherited from the Denisovans, was found to regulate zinc transport and cellular metabolism. Zinc dysregulation has been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the advantages and disadvantages of this gene variant are still speculative. The study highlights a potential link between natural selection and zinc metabolism, but further research is needed to understand how this variant influences the brain and the complex nature of neuropsychiatric conditions.