Core Viewpoint - The discovery of the Harbin cranium, a well-preserved ancient human fossil, has led to the identification of a potential new hominin lineage named "Dragon Man" (Homo longi), sparking debates in the academic community regarding its classification and relationship with Denisovans [2][4][5]. Group 1: Discovery and Significance - The Harbin cranium is one of the most complete ancient human fossils discovered to date, with uranium-series dating indicating it is no younger than 146,000 years [2]. - The research published in The Innovation journal suggests that the cranium represents a new hominin lineage, "Dragon Man" [2]. - The cranium's discovery and subsequent research provide critical insights into the diversity and evolutionary history of ancient humans in East Asia [7][14]. Group 2: Controversy and Research Findings - There is ongoing debate in the academic community regarding the classification of "Dragon Man," with some researchers suggesting it may belong to the Denisovan lineage due to morphological similarities [4][5]. - The Denisovans are an extinct group identified through genetic evidence, with existing remains being fragmentary and lacking complete morphological features [5]. - Recent ancient DNA studies have provided key insights into the genetic affiliation of the Harbin individual, linking it to the Denisovan lineage and suggesting a close relationship with early Denisovans from Siberia [11][14]. Group 3: Methodology and Technological Advances - The research team successfully extracted ancient DNA from dental calculus of the Harbin cranium, marking a significant advancement in the study of ancient human genetics [6][10]. - The study involved optimizing extraction methods and developing bioinformatics techniques to analyze ancient DNA, overcoming challenges associated with contamination and degradation [10][11]. - The findings highlight the potential of dental calculus as a valuable source for ancient DNA, paving the way for future research in the field [14].