Neanderthal Gene Linked to Reduced Athletic Performance in Modern Humans

A recent study published by researchers at the Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology has shed light on a fascinating link between ancient genetics and modern athletic performance. The team discovered a genetic variant inherited from Neanderthals that may influence an individual's potential in endurance and power sports.

This particular mutation, present in approximately 8% of modern Europeans, affects the activity of a crucial enzyme involved in energy production within skeletal muscle. The researchers found that while this variant is not associated with any significant health concerns, its impact on the body's ability to generate energy during intense physical activity could potentially limit athletic achievement.

Neanderthal Legacy and Athletic Potential

Scientists believe that modern humans interbred with Neanderthals around 50,000 years ago, primarily in Europe and Western Asia. As a result, non-African populations today carry approximately 1–2% of Neanderthal DNA. This ancient genetic heritage has left its mark on various aspects of human biology, including athletic capabilities.

The study revealed that the Neanderthal variant is found in varying frequencies across different populations: 8% of Europeans, 3% of Native Americans, and 2% of South Asians. In contrast, it is absent in Africans, East Asians, and African-Americans. These findings highlight the complex interplay between ancient ancestry and modern human traits.

During strenuous exercise, cells rely on a molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for energy. ATP acts as our body's "batteries," powering essential cellular processes. One way our bodies create ATP, particularly during intense physical activity, is by converting two molecules of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) into one molecule of ATP and one of adenosine monophosphate (AMP). This process requires the action of an enzyme called AMPD1.

The researchers discovered that the Neanderthal gene variant impairs the function of AMPD1. As a result, individuals carrying this variant may experience a build-up of AMP in their muscles, hindering their ability to produce ATP as efficiently as needed during demanding exercise. This could potentially lead to reduced performance in endurance and power sports.

Impact on Athletic Performance

To investigate the practical implications of the Neanderthal gene variant on athletic performance, the researchers analyzed its prevalence among elite athletes and non-athletes. They found that while 4% to 14% of athletes carried this genetic variant, 9% to 19% of non-athletes had it. Notably, individuals with just one copy of the Neanderthal gene (out of two inherited copies) had a 50% lower probability of achieving elite athletic status.

While the presence of the Neanderthal gene variant may pose a challenge for athletes in extreme exercise scenarios, it is unlikely to significantly affect most people's daily activities. Energy production during routine tasks relies on different metabolic pathways, rendering the impact of this genetic variant less pronounced in everyday life.

Despite its potential influence on athletic performance, it is highly improbable that the Neanderthal gene variant played a decisive role in the extinction of Neanderthals. Researchers found evidence of this variant in both early and later Neanderthal individuals, suggesting its stable presence over thousands of years. Furthermore, some modern humans carry mutations that completely disrupt the AMPD1 protein without experiencing any major health issues.

While the gene affects muscle metabolism, it likely did not have a significant impact on Neanderthals' ability to survive. Their extinction was likely a result of a complex interplay of environmental, social, and genetic factors.

The discovery of this Neanderthal-derived genetic variant offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate relationship between ancient ancestry and modern human traits. It highlights the enduring legacy of our ancestors and how their genetic contributions continue to shape our biology, including our athletic potential. Understanding these complex interactions provides valuable insights into human evolution and the diversity of our species.