Recent Genetic Shifts in Humans Reveal Ongoing Evolution

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:24:00 +0200

A groundbreaking study published in Nature has revealed that human evolution is far from over, challenging the long-held belief that cultural advancements have largely eclipsed biological change. Researchers analyzed DNA from 15,836 ancient human remains and discovered 479 genetic variants that have demonstrably shifted due to natural selection within the last 10,000 years – a relatively short period in evolutionary terms. This finding indicates that humans continue to evolve at a measurable rate, with potentially thousands more variants yet to be identified. The research highlighted surprising developments, such as the emergence of a genetic mutation linked to celiac disease just 4,000 years ago, and the decreasing prevalence of variants associated with a smoking habit in European populations, the cause of which remains unknown. The study also revealed the fluctuating prevalence of traits like Type B blood and genetic variations influencing immune responses. Notably, the link between