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Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos.

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Not just this, this DNA could have had a connection to northern China over 100,000 years ago. Denisovans were an ancient human population that lived tens of thousands of years ago and were closely related to but distinct from both modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals.

They are known primarily through genetic evidence extracted from fossil remains found in the Denisova Cave in Siberia, Russia. Despite their genetic legacy in modern humans, their physical appearance has largely eluded discovery.

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Recent findings pointed out a possible connection between Denisovans and a newly identified species, Homo longi, also known as "Dragon man."

These are characterised by distinctive features such as a broad nose and thick brow ridges. This breakthrough suggested a deeper understanding of Denisovan traits and their evolutionary lineage.

Evidence of Denisovan genes in Tibetan populations also highlighted their interbreeding with Homo sapiens which could have potentially influenced modern humans' ability to thrive at high altitudes.

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Surprising discoveries, like a Denisovan jawbone in a Tibetan cave, further strengthen the link between Denisovans and Homo longi. This has now fuelled speculation about their shared ancestry.

“We now believe that the Denisovans were members of the Homo longi species,” Professor Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing reportedly said.

“The latter is ­characterised by a broad nose, thick brow ridges over its eyes and large tooth sockets," he added. 

Absence of Chinese fossils 

However, challenges persist in unraveling Denisovan mysteries, including the absence of DNA in Chinese fossils.

Yet, innovative techniques like proteomics are now seem to be offering promising avenues for extracting information from ancient proteins.

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Janet Kelso of the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany reportedly said, “It was the first time a Denisovan fossil find had been made outside Siberia and that was very important."

“Equally intriguing was the fact that the jawbone has teeth that are similar to the teeth found in Homo longi. So I think the evidence suggests a link between the cranium and Denisovans," Kelso added. 

(With inputs from agencies)