In 2015, the remains of an individual named 'Thorin' were discovered in the Drôme region of France, marking a significant archaeological find.

The study suggests that at least two distinct Neanderthal populations coexisted during the period leading up to their extinction, challenging the notion of a genetically homogeneous group.

First author Tharsika Vimala noted that the presence of at least two Neanderthal populations at the time of extinction contradicts previous beliefs about their genetic uniformity.

The find was kept secret for nearly a decade while researchers investigated its significance, ultimately revealing a wealth of information about Neanderthal genetics.

After nearly 10 years of study, the research on Thorin's genome was published in the journal Cell Genomics, led by archaeologist Ludovic Slimak from CNRS.

New DNA analysis indicates that Thorin belonged to a previously unknown lineage of Neanderthals that had been isolated for approximately 50,000 years.

The isolation of Neanderthal communities, such as Thorin's, may have contributed to their extinction by limiting genetic variation and adaptability to environmental changes.

Thorin's genetic makeup shows no signs of interbreeding with other Neanderthals or Homo sapiens, raising questions about social dynamics among these groups.

Experts suggest that the lack of genetic exchange and competition for resources likely played a role in the decline of Neanderthals.

Further excavation at Grotte Mandrin is necessary to confirm the dating and significance of Thorin's remains, as ongoing research continues to uncover more about late Neanderthal populations.

Thorin exhibited two extra lower molars, a trait that may indicate inbreeding within his isolated population, adding complexity to his lineage.

Neanderthals, a distinct human species, are believed to have disappeared around 40,000 years ago, with many modern humans carrying traces of Neanderthal DNA due to interbreeding.