Analyzing fossils from a cave in Siberia, scientists have found the first known Neanderthal family: a father, his teenage daughter, and others who were probably close cousins. The findings paint a picture of an actual family that lived 54,000 years ago. Neanderthals mysteriously became extinct about 40,000 years ago.

Prof Sewell said the 'right people' are now interested in developing the potential new therapy and said progress could now move 'quite fast'. The team says human trials on terminally ill patients could begin as early as November if the new treatment passes further laboratory safety testing.