By Jessica Carter • February 28, 2026 • Share
Modern humans began their migration out of Africa approximately 47,000 to 65,000 years ago, encountering Neanderthals in Eurasia. This momentous interaction was not just a fleeting encounter; it led to interbreeding, leaving a significant genetic legacy that is evident in contemporary populations today. Remarkably, one in three European women carries a Neanderthal-derived variant of the progesterone receptor.
The progesterone receptor plays a crucial role in preparing the uterine lining for pregnancy and supporting early gestation. This makes it one of the most biologically significant traits inherited from our ancient relatives, the Neanderthals. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute and Karolinska Institutet have identified this variant, known as V660L. Interestingly, while this variant appears in several Neanderthal genomes, it is absent in Denisovans, another ancient human species.
Extensive analysis of data from over 450,000 European women has yielded fascinating insights into the effects of the V660L variant. Carriers of this genetic trait experience:
Fewer Early-Pregnancy Bleedings: This variant helps stabilize early pregnancy.
Lower Miscarriage Rates: Women with this variant tend to have more successful pregnancies.
Higher Overall Fertility: Studies indicate that these women have more children and siblings.
These advantages suggest that the variant was favored by natural selection, as it appears to improve reproductive success.
Read more on the next page ⬇️⬇️⬇️
