Read, Watch or Listen

A new study suggests lead exposure among ancient hominids may have influenced social and behavioral functioning during evolution, with Homo sapiens better tolerating the toxin than Neanderthals. Researchers measured lead in 51 fossilized teeth, some 1.8 million years old, and found exposure in 73% of samples spanning Homo sapiens, Neanderthals, and other Homo species. In lab-grown brain organoids, lead disrupted FOXP2 when paired with ancient variants of the NOVA1 gene. The authors note model limits but argue this resistance likely gave modern humans a survival advantage.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.