Nature Podcast31 Jan 2024

Ancient DNA solves the mystery of who made a set of stone tools

In this episode:

0:48 How hominins spread through Europe

Ancient stone tools are often uncovered in Europe, but it can be difficult to identify who crafted them, as Neanderthals and Homo sapiens coexisted in the region for several thousand years. The makers of one type of tool found in northern Europe has long puzzled researchers, but now through genetic analysis of nearby skeletal fragments, it has been revealed that they were made by Homo sapiens. The age of these tools suggests that modern humans were more widespread and adaptable to living in colder climates than previously thought.

Research article: Mylopotamitaki et al.

News and Views: Stone tools in northern Europe made by Homo sapiens 45,000 years ago

09:36 Research Highlights

How a Colombian mountain range lost its root, and what Roman wine may have looked, smelled and tasted like.

Research Highlight: A mysterious mountain range lacks roots but still stands tall

Research Highlight: The clever system that gave Roman wines an amber colour and nutty aroma

15:21 Briefing Chat

Analysis of lab-grown neurons reveals why brain cells grow so slowly in humans, and a genetic therapy for a certain type of deafness shows promise.

Video: Why human brain cells grow so slowly

Science: Gene therapies that let deaf children hear bring hope—and many questions

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