Archaic Human DNA FAQ's
With our Archaic Human DNA analysis we allow you to see how much of your genome originated from two different Archaic Human subspecies: Neanderthals and Denisovans. You will also see how your Archaic DNA content compares to a wider group of people from our user base, and to different human populations from around the world. We also show which of your genetically influenced physical characteristics are derived from Archaic Human DNA.
Your Neanderthal score represents the number of alleles (DNA letters) that you share with Neanderthals. A total of 3,990 human genome locations (SNPs) have been identified as originating in Neanderthals. By multiplying this number by 2 we get the total number of alleles that we calculate your Neanderthal score over; this is 7,980. Therefore, Neanderthal scores range between 0 and 7,980. However, the maximum and minimum scores are never found in people. Typically, scores between 250 to 400 likely for someone without African ancestry.
Your Denisovan score represents the number of alleles (DNA letters) that you share with Denisovans. A total of 817 human genome locations (SNPs) have been identified as originating in Denisovans. By multiplying this number by 2 we get the total number of alleles that we calculate your Denisovan score over: 1,634 Therefore, Denisovan scores range between 0 and 1,634. Typically, the maximum score you might expect to see is 400.