Final answer:
Neandertal mtDNA is distinct from the variation of modern human mtDNA, although there has been a history of interbreeding between Neandertals, Denisovans, and modern humans. The genetic exchange resulted in the presence of Neandertal DNA in modern human populations but did not place Neandertal mtDNA within the same variation range as modern humans.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, Neandertal mtDNA does not fall within the range of variation observed for modern human mtDNA lineages. Modern DNA analysis has shown that Neandertals and modern humans did interbreed, which has led to the presence of Neandertal DNA in modern human populations. However, their mtDNA is distinct enough from modern humans to suggest that they were a separate lineage. Studies comparing Neandertal DNA with that of modern humans have identified similarities with modern European-derived peoples, yet these similarities are not sufficient to place Neandertal mtDNA within the normal variation range of modern human mtDNA.
Molecular anthropologists use mtDNA to estimate the timeline of genetic divergence and have concluded that all modern humans have mtDNA inherited from a common ancestor that lived in Africa about 160,000 years ago. Neandertal and Denisovan DNA contributions to modern humans, discovered through comparisons of ancient and modern genetic material, are evidence of interbreeding among these ancient hominids and Homo sapiens. In particular, Denisovans and Neandertals shared a common ancestor, as evidenced by genetic studies of fossils found in Siberia and Spain. This interbreeding event introduces unique genetic diversity into the human gene pool and indicates that while there was some genetic exchange, it does not necessarily mean that Neandertal mtDNA is encompassed by the variation seen in contemporary human populations.