A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals that certain genetic traits inherited from Neanderthals may significantly contribute to the development of autism. This groundbreaking research shows that specific Neanderthal genetic variants can influence autism susceptibility, suggesting a link between our ancient relatives and modern neurodevelopmental conditions. The study was motivated by the longstanding curiosity about how archaic human DNA, particularly from Neanderthals, influences modern human health. Homo neanderthalensis, commonly known as Neanderthals, are our closest known…