Comparison of protein sequences among human groups

Jesper Velgaard Olsen went on to say that utilizing state-of-the-art mass spectrometry can help them identify the sequences of amino acids within the protein remains from the dental enamel of the Homo antecessor. They were also able to compare the ancient protein sequences they have determined to those of other hominins. For example, they compared the Neanderthals and Homo sapiens to discover how they are genetically related.

As such, palaeoproteomics finally identified where the Homo antecessor fit in the lineup of modern humans all the way back to ancient species. Frido Welker, co-author and post-doctoral fellow at the University of Copenhagen, shared with Science Daily that ancient protein analysis can provide evidence for a close relationship among Homo antecessor, Neanderthals, Denisovans, and us, Homo sapiens. Additionally, recent studies have credited that Homo Sapiens have very similar facial features to Homo antecessor.