Mapping Neanderthal Genetic Code

Skull of a Neanderthal man.
Image: Nature Publishing

99.5 percent of the Neanderthal genome is identical to modern humans, according to researchers studying the genetic code of a 38,000 year old bone speciman. It is understood that modern humans and Neanderthals are descended from a common ancestor and seperated some 450,000 years ago. Scientists hope to have a map of the Neanderthal genome within two years. It is believed that such research will provide evidence as to why the Neanderthals went extinct.

--"99.5 Percent Like a Neanderthal," The New York Times, 18 Nov. 2006, sec. A26.