Humans and chimpanzees do indeed have almost the same set of genes — the similarity reaches 98–99%, but modern research shows that it is the differences in DNA that play a decisive role, which determine the development of the brain, speech, and unique human abilities.
Scientists have clarified that the famous figure of 99% genetic similarity between humans and chimpanzees reflects only part of the truth. Modern research has shown that although the genomes of the two species do indeed coincide by more than 98%, the key differences lie in the regulatory elements of DNA that control gene activity.
The DNA of both species consists of three billion “letters” — nucleotides A, C, G, and T. At first glance, the differences are minimal — about 1 for every 100 nucleotides. But it is small changes in the regulatory regions that affect the development of the brain, speech, immune system, and cognitive abilities.
Scientists note that even with the same “toolkit” – proteins encoded by genes – humans and chimpanzees use them differently. These small differences in the way DNA works determine the unique characteristics of humans.
Researchers emphasize that the close relationship between humans and chimpanzees is beyond doubt, and studying the differences helps to better understand evolution, the nature of the mind, and the origin of human culture.
