Ancient Dna

Most Australian ‘wild dogs’ are predominantly dingoes

Modern humans share genomic innovations for complex language with ancient Neanderthals

Scientists found that specific genetic sequences, known as HAQERs, have a significant impact on human language abilities. These regions evolved before humans and Neanderthals diverged and are thought to be responsible for the development of modern human language.

Massive ancient-DNA study reveals natural selection has accelerated in recent human evolution

A massive study of ancient DNA from nearly 16,000 people across over 10,000 years in West Eurasia reveals that natural selection has shaped modern human genomes more than previously thought. Many gene variants linked to health and complex traits have been selected since farming began.

Largest dog ancient DNA study reveals the identity of the earliest dogs in Europe

Researchers found that dogs were domesticated from grey wolves more than 14,000 years ago and contributed substantially to the genetics of modern dogs. The study analyzed DNA from 216 ancient remains, including a 14,200-year-old dog, confirming that European dogs share ancestry with Asian dogs.

Hiding in plain sight: Scientists uncover the ancient DNA sequences that control gene function across plant evolution

A new study has identified ~2.3 million conserved non-coding DNA sequences across 284 plant species, revealing deep principles of plant genome evolution. These ancient regulatory sequences can be maintained despite repeated genome duplications, opening the door to precise engineering of plant traits.

First evidence that North Sea ‘Lost World’ had habitable forests during the last ice age

Researchers discovered temperate trees, including oak, elm, and hazel, in Doggerland over 16,000 years ago, revealing a surprisingly hospitable environment. The study suggests that Doggerland may have supported early Mesolithic communities prior to flooding, shedding light on the region's ecological history and human settlement patterns.

Woolly rhino genome recovered from Ice Age wolf stomach

Scientists successfully sequenced a woolly rhinoceros genome from a 14,400-year-old tissue sample found in an ancient wolf's stomach. The study reveals that the species likely died out due to rapid population collapse rather than gradual decline.

Ancient genetics and modern pollutants could provide a clue to endometriosis risk

A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.

Ancient wolves on remote Baltic Sea island reveal link to prehistoric humans

Scientists have discovered wolf remains, thousands of years old, on a small, isolated island in the Baltic Sea. The study suggests that grey wolves may have been managed or controlled by prehistoric societies, with evidence of complex relations and interactions between humans and wolves.

The world’s oldest RNA extracted from woolly mammoth

Researchers have successfully isolated and sequenced RNA molecules from Ice Age woolly mammoths, providing new insights into the biology of extinct species. The study reveals that RNA can be preserved for nearly 40,000 years, offering a glimpse into the final moments of life.

New DNA analysis approach could transform understanding of disease evolution

Researchers developed a new DNA analysis technique to study old genetic samples, shedding light on disease evolution and changes in biology over time. The approach has potential for unlocking the root causes underlying shifting landscapes of modern diseases.

Neanderthal DNA helps explain how faces form

Scientists studied Neanderthal DNA to understand how facial features develop and evolve. They found a region of DNA that activates the SOX9 gene, leading to a larger lower jaw in Neanderthals. This discovery sheds light on the genetic mechanisms behind face variation and evolution.

Sudden complexity just 65 million years ago

A study led by Göttingen University found that a group of algae, Coleochaetophyceae, gained complex body structures around 65 million years ago. The team analyzed genetic evolution and fossil evidence, revealing that plant-like complexity is an ancient potential that emerged multiple times.

DNA from Napoleon’s 1812 army identifies the pathogens likely responsible for the army’s demise during their retreat from Russia

Researchers extracted DNA from Napoleon soldiers' teeth and identified Salmonella enterica and Borrelia recurrentis as causes of enteric fever and relapsing fever. The discovery sheds new light on the factors contributing to the army's downfall.

Baltic diatoms remained genetically stable for millennia – then humans came into play

A recent study found that Baltic diatom populations experienced accelerated genetic changes in response to human activity, but remained stable for millennia. The research team extracted ancient DNA from sediment cores and sequenced the genetic material of two cell organelles to analyze changes over 8,000 years.

Ancient mammoth remains yield the world's oldest host-associated bacterial DNA

Researchers have uncovered microbial DNA in woolly and steppe mammoth remains dating back over 1 million years, identifying bacteria possibly causing disease in mammoths. The findings provide an unprecedented glimpse into the microbiomes of extinct megafauna.

Microalgae are more significant for carbon dioxide absorption in the Southern Ocean than previously thought

A study by Alfred Wegener Institute revealed that microalgae in the Southern Ocean played a significant role in reducing global atmospheric CO2 levels 14,000 years ago. The findings suggest that changes in sea ice extent had a direct impact on algal productivity and carbon transport to the deep sea.

Capturing language change through the genes

Researchers discovered that languages from different continents and populations become more similar after contact, with rates of borrowing ranging from 4-9%. The team found that linguistic features are not consistently transferable, challenging long-held assumptions about language learning.

‘Ultimate dinner party guests’: Dispersed communities attending feast in ancient Iran gifted boars sourced from distant lands

Researchers discovered that ancient Iranian communities, around 11,000 years ago, brought wild boars hunted in dispersed parts of the landscape as gifts for a communal celebration. The findings suggest this practice of offering gifts with geographical symbolism can be traced back to prehistory.

Large-scale DNA study maps 37,000 years of disease history

A new study has mapped the history of infectious diseases across millennia, offering insights into how human-animal interactions transformed our health landscape. The research analyzed ancient DNA from over 1,300 prehistoric individuals, revealing that zoonotic diseases became more widespread around 5,000 years ago.

Famous Ice Age ‘puppies’ likely wolf cubs and not dogs, study shows

A new study has found that two ancient Ice Age 'puppies' are likely to be wolf cubs, not dogs, based on genetic analysis of their gut contents and other chemical 'fingerprints'. The discovery provides insight into the diet and breeding behaviors of Pleistocene wolves, which lived in a diverse environment with varied ecosystems.

Research contributes understanding to one of the most compelling and enduring mysteries in human history

A new study analyzing ancient genomes from seven individuals in present-day Honduras provides insights into the genetic origins of the Classic Maya people and their population expansion or decline during the rise and fall of their civilization. The research contributes to our understanding of human history, population dynamics, and env...

Mystery of “very odd” elasmosaur finally solved: one of North America’s most famous fossils identified as new species

A group of elasmosaur fossils has been formally identified as belonging to a new genus, Traskasaura sandrae. This ancient marine reptile, measuring 12 meters long and having heavy, sharp teeth, likely hunted prey from above using its strong swimming capabilities.

Ancient DNA used to map evolution of fever-causing bacteria

Researchers mapped the evolution of Borrelia recurrentis, a type of bacteria causing relapsing fever, by analyzing ancient DNA. The study found that the species likely diverged from its tick-borne cousin around 6,000 years ago and gained new genes over time, allowing it to spread through human lice.

Researchers map 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that protects against HIV

Researchers have mapped a 7,000-year-old genetic mutation that provides protection against HIV, found in 18-25% of the Danish population. The mutation arose in an individual from the Black Sea region between 6,700 and 9,000 years ago.

Phoenician culture spread mainly through cultural exchange

The study reveals that Phoenician culture spread primarily through cultural transmission and assimilation, with little direct genetic contribution from Levantine ancestors. Punic sites showcased a highly heterogeneous genetic profile, with individuals having both Sicilian-Aegean and North African ancestry.

Spread of baker’s yeast tied to human migration

Researchers found distinct subpopulations of wild baker's yeast in different regions, coinciding with human activity and migration patterns. The study suggests that humans may have unintentionally influenced the environment by introducing microorganisms thousands of years ago.

A new Denisovan mandible from Taiwan

Penghu 1, discovered on the seabed of the Penghu Channel in Taiwan, is revealed to be a Denisovan mandible dating back to 10,000 years ago. The fossil's molecular identification sheds light on the mysterious distribution and appearance of Denisovans in eastern Asia.

First ancient genomes from the Green Sahara deciphered

A new study deciphers ancient DNA from the Green Sahara, providing critical insights into the African Humid Period and its impact on human migration. The research reveals a unique genetic lineage that remained isolated for thousands of years, highlighting North Africa's heritage.

Unique dove species is the dodo of the Caribbean and in similar danger of dying out

The Cuban blue-headed quail dove is an enigmatic bird species with a perplexing evolutionary history. Its DNA analysis reveals it to be more distinct from other doves than previously thought, dating back at least 50 million years.

New study reveals Neanderthals experienced population crash 110,000 years ago

A new study found that Neanderthals experienced a drastic loss of genetic variation approximately 110,000 years ago, leading to their eventual extinction. The research measured the morphological diversity in semicircular canals, which revealed lower diversity in classic Neanderthals compared to pre-Neanderthals and early Neanderthals.

Ancient genomes reveal an Iron Age society centred on women

A groundbreaking study finds evidence of female political and social empowerment in ancient Britain, where land was inherited through the female line. This system, known as matrilocality, was found to be widespread across Iron Age Britain, with dominant matrilines established before 400 BC.

Ancient DNA unlocks new understanding of migrations in the first millennium AD

Researchers used a new data analysis method called Twigstats to analyze over 1500 European genomes from the first millennium AD, revealing waves of migration across Europe. The study found that Germanic-speaking people moved south into southern Germany, Italy, and Britain, while also showing northward waves of migration into Scandinavi...

Syphilis had its roots in the Americas

Researchers have analyzed ancient DNA from Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Argentina to determine the origin of syphilis. The study found that syphilis-like infections occurred in the Americas for millennia and supports an American origin for the disease.

What a century-old grapevine reveals about a disease that plagues wine country

Researchers used a century-old grapevine cutting to reconstruct the history of Pierce's disease in California, finding that the pathogen arrived in the US nearly 150 years earlier than previously thought. The study suggests multiple introductions of the pathogen and potential genetic variations may impact disease management.

A new timeline for Neanderthal interbreeding with modern humans

A new analysis of DNA from ancient modern humans in Europe and Asia has determined that Neanderthals interbred with modern humans from approximately 50,500 to 43,500 years ago. This period of interbreeding left Eurasians with many genes inherited from their Neanderthal ancestors.

New timeline for Neandertal gene flow event

Researchers have unraveled the precise timing and functional legacy of Neandertal gene flow into early modern humans. The study suggests that most non-African individuals harbor one to two percent Neandertal ancestry, with the majority tracing back to a single shared period between 50,000 and 57,000 years ago.

Genetic study of native hazelnut challenges misconceptions about how ancient Indigenous peoples used the land

A genetic study of the beaked hazelnut reveals that ancient Indigenous peoples cultivated and traded this plant across British Columbia. The research challenges settler-colonial narratives by establishing a large-scale cultivation network dating back 7,000 years.

DNA of 1,000 year-old maize sheds light on origins of globally important food crop

Researchers reconstruct genomes of 1,000-year-old maize cobs to reveal close genetic link with Northern Flint varieties, showing the selection process that shaped this globally important food crop. The study provides valuable information for crop breeders to reintroduce lost genetic diversity and develop new varieties.

Ancient maize genomes reveal the early evolutionary history of commercially important flint and dent varieties

Researchers reconstructed the journey of maize into eastern North America, tracing its dispersal routes and history of selection. Ancient genomes reveal a genetic link between Northern Flints and 1,000-year-old Ozark maize, highlighting early adaptations for local climates and culinary preferences.

Resurrecting an ancestral protein as a novel tool to study RNA biology

Scientists have developed a novel enzyme, SUPer RNA EcoGII Methyltransferase (SUPREM), which can selectively modify RNA and has high methylation activity. This tool can be used to investigate RNA modifications in various diseases, providing new insights into their role in cell health.

New method reveals DNA methylation in ancient tissues, unlocking secrets of human evolution

A novel method has been developed to infer DNA methylation patterns in non-skeletal tissues from ancient specimens, providing new insights into human evolution. The study found over 1,850 sites of differential methylation specifically in prefrontal cortex neurons, linked to genes crucial for brain development.

Scientists use ancient DNA to shed light on adaptation of early Europeans

Researchers used ancient DNA to uncover novel signatures of adaptation in early Europeans, tracing genetic changes in response to lifestyle shifts. The study identified 14 regions of the genome that underwent significant natural selection, including traits related to vitamin D production and dairy digestion.

DNA evidence rewrites story of people buried in Pompeii eruption

A study analyzing DNA from skeletal remains in Pompeii casts reveals the cosmopolitan origin of the city's inhabitants, contradicting previous physical appearance-based assumptions. Genetic data also sheds light on ancestry, sex, and familial relationships, challenging traditional notions.

DNA evidence rewrites histories for people buried in volcanic eruption in ancient Pompeii

Ancient DNA from Pompeii's body casts reveals diverse genomic backgrounds and cosmopolitan ancestry, contradicting long-held assumptions about sex and family relationships. The findings highlight the importance of integrating genetic data with archaeological and historical information to avoid misinterpretations.

Ancient DNA brings to life history of the iconic aurochs, whose tale is intertwined with climate change and human culture

Geneticists deciphered aurochs prehistory by analysing 38 ancient genomes from Siberia to Britain. The study highlights diverse wild forms and the impact of climate change and domestication on their evolution.

Harnessing nature’s code for data storage

The new approach utilizes epigenetic principles to encode digital information onto existing DNA strands, significantly increasing storage capacity and reducing costs. The technique enables the storage of vast amounts of data in a minuscule space for long durations, offering a major shift from conventional storage technologies.

“Well-man” thrown from castle identified from 800-year-old Norse saga

Researchers have used ancient DNA to corroborate a 800-year-old Norse saga about King Sverre Sigurdsson's military raid. The study reveals details about the 'Well-man,' including his likely blue eyes, blond hair, and ancestral origins in southern Norway.

These 19th century lions from Kenya ate humans, DNA collected from hairs in their teeth shows

Researchers analyzed compacted hairs from Tsavo lion museum specimens to find that historic lions preyed on humans, giraffes, wildebeests and oryx. The study provides insights into the ecology and diet of lions in the past and potential human-lion conflicts in Africa.

The Vikings were part of a global network trading in ivory from Greenland

Researchers found Vikings traveled extensively for walrus ivory, covering 6,000 km, including interactions with indigenous Arctic populations.

Early interactions between Europeans and Indigenous North Americans revealed

Ancient DNA analysis reveals the Viking Age trade routes of walrus ivory, confirming early encounters between European Norse and North American Indigenous peoples. Genetic fingerprinting identified specific Arctic hunting grounds as the source of traded ivory.

World’s oldest cheese reveals origins of kefir

Scientists extracted DNA from ancient cheese samples found in Tarim Basin mummies, revealing a new origin for kefir cheese and shedding light on the evolution of probiotic bacteria. The study suggests that kefir culture has been maintained in Northwestern China since the Bronze Age.

Insights into South African population history from 10,000-year-old human DNA

Researchers analyzed ancient genomes from the Oakhurst rock shelter in southern Africa, finding that the oldest genomes are genetically similar to San and Khoekhoe groups living today. The study reveals a long history of relative genetic stability until around 1,200 years ago when newcomers introduced new cultures and languages.

Genomics reveals sled dogs’ Siberian lineage

A massive genomic survey reveals two distinct lineages of Arctic canids that originated in the northeastern Siberian Arctic generations earlier than thought. Approximately half of all Siberian huskies bred for racing have introgression with European breeds.

Ancient DNA from Rapa Nui (Easter Island) refutes best-selling population collapse theory

A new study challenges the long-held 'ecocide' theory of Rapanui population collapse by analyzing ancient DNA from 15 individuals. The research found no evidence of a dramatic population collapse in the 1600s, instead revealing a stable and growing population until European contact in the 18th century.

Ancient DNA reveals Indigenous dog lineages found at Jamestown, Virginia

Researchers sequenced mitochondrial DNA from archaeological dogs and discovered six with Indigenous North American ancestry. The findings suggest that dogs were not immediately eradicated when Europeans arrived and may have had interbreeding.

Chromatin structure plays a key role in canine social behavior evolution

A study found that chromatin's spatial structure plays a key role in the evolution of social behavior in dogs. The researchers examined an intronic section of the GTF2I gene, which influences chromatin's spatial structure and causes differences in gene expression.

Ancient DNA analyses imply brucellosis evolved with development of farming

Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from an 8,000-year-old sheep bone and found evidence of Brucella melitensis, a pathogen causing significant harm to livestock. The study suggests that brucellosis evolved around the same time as farming development, with early farmers creating conditions for pathogen host-jumping.

How is biodiversity changing in one of the world’s most productive ocean ecosystems?

A study published in Global Change Biology found severe biodiversity decline in the Atacama Trench from 1970 to 1985, coinciding with an El Niño event and extensive fishing efforts. The researchers also discovered a direct impact of sea surface temperature on marine life composition over time.

Ancient microbes offer clues to how complex life evolved

Researchers found ancient giant viruses woven into single-celled organism's genetic code, sparking new understanding of virus-host interaction and potential evolutionary benefits.