Application of a novel non-destructive DNA extraction method to a Paleolithic deer tooth pendant from Denisova Cave, Siberia, resulted in the recovery of ancient human and deer genomes, which allowed researchers to estimate the age of the pendant at approximately 19,000-25,000 years. DNA analysis identifies the presumed maker or wearer of the pendant as a female individual with strong genetic affinities to a group of Ancient North Eurasian individuals who lived around the same time but were previously found only further east in Siberia.
Artifacts made of stones, bones and teeth offer insights into human behaviors and culture in Paleolithic times.
Objects made from animal bones or teeth are particularly promising, because they are porous and therefore allow penetration of DNA-containing fluids, such as sweat, blood or saliva, which can be used to infer the makers or users of such objects.
However, DNA extraction from ancient skeletal material can be destructive or can alter the specimens, or risks alteration of specimens submerged in extraction buffer solutions, making it difficult to link these objects to specific human individuals.
“The surface structure of Paleolithic bone and tooth artifacts provides important information about their production and use,” said Dr. Marie Soressi, an archaeologist at the University of Leide.
“Therefore, preserving the integrity of the artifacts, including microstructures on their surface, was a top priority.”
Dr. Soressi and her colleagues developed a non-destructive DNA extraction method, in which the objects were submerged in a sodium phosphate buffer while gradually increasing the temperature.
DNA trapped in ancient bone and tooth artifacts is released into the solution and enables further sequencing and analysis.
“One could say we have created a washing machine for ancient artifacts within our clean lab,” said Dr. Elena Essel, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.
“By…
Read the full article here