Neandertal and Denisovan Genomes from the Altai Susanna Sawyer
et al. In 2010 a draft genome sequence was determined from a
small finger bone found in Denisova Cave in southern Siberia.
Its analysis revealed that it derives from an individual who
belonged to a population related to, but distinct from,
Neandertals. A molar has also been described from and has shown
to carry an mtDNA genome closely related to that of the finger
bone. We have recently determined the DNA sequence of the
Denisova genome to a quality similar to present-day human
genomes. We have also retrieved a complete mitochondrial genome
and nuclear DNA sequences from an additional molar found in
Denisova Cave . Furthermore, we have determined a high-quality
nuclear genome from a pedal phalanx found in Denisova Cave in
2010. We show that the pedal phalanx derived from a Neandertal
and thus that Neandertals as well as Denisovans have been
present in the cave. We will discuss the genetic history of
Denisovans as well as Neandertals in light of th