Ancient RNA reveals mammoth's final moments
Scientists sequenced RNA from a 39,000-year-old woolly mammoth, offering a snapshot of its final moments.
Why it matters
- First-time extraction of ancient RNA from a woolly mammoth.
- Provides insights into gene activity at the time of death.
- Challenges previous beliefs about RNA stability.
By the numbers
- Mammoth died 39,000 years ago.
- Studied 10 mammoths, reliable RNA from 3.
- Yuka was initially thought to be female but determined to be male.
The big picture
- Could redefine understanding of ancient biology.
- Potential applications in de-extinction efforts and studying ancient viruses.
What they're saying
- Experts surprised by RNA survival after 40,000 years.
- RNA analysis could paint a more complete picture of life's history.
Caveats
- Small sample size with reliable RNA signals.
- More research needed on molecule degradation post-death.
What’s next
- Improving methods for ancient RNA analysis.
- Further studies on ancient viruses and life history.