found tens of thousands of years ago necklace and earrings It may even shed light on those years. The status distinction and culture of the human community in the region where the accessories are found are brought to light thanks to these discoveries.

However, the absence of human remains in the same area prevents us from knowing exactly where the people who lived then belonged. But with newly developed methods this is now possible. One example was announced in a study published May 3.

DNA samples have been taken from a necklace found in Russia!

• Deer tusk sampled with DNA, cut for a necklace.

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute used the new method they developed to obtain human DNA contaminated on an item without breaking the item. From the necklace found in Siberia’s Denisova Cave in 2019 and believed to be about 20,000 years old,’environmental DNA (eDNA)‘ was obtained.

What did the necklace’s DNA tell us?

Scientists who examined the DNA saw that the number of X chromosomes in the DNA indicated that the person wearing this necklace was a woman. In addition, the DNA of the woman, 17,000 to 24,000 years it matched the two communities that previously lived in the area.

Compared to today’s human, DNA is very similar to the Indians revealed. On the other hand, no physical remains of the woman were found, except for the chromosomes.

So how is this DNA extracted from a tiny chain piece?

The DNA of humans and all other living things is spread by sweat or skin cells. The DNA found in the chain piece is actually it was one of the DNAs that ended up in the item this way.

Scientists used a special chemical mixture to obtain the DNA in the chain. This chemical mixture 90 degrees centigrade The necklace, which was ‘washed’ with as much heat as possible, allowed DNA to be obtained without any damage.

Moreover, this method was so successful that, according to Elena Essel of the Institute, the result was as if a human tooth had been taken.

What can the new method do?

The team at the Max Planck Institute will now apply their new method to other previously discovered objects and accessories. This way before of other details not seen and learned in the past. will be directed to be revealed.