DNA Has an Expiration Date. But Proteins Are Revealing Secrets About Our Ancient Ancestors We Never Thought Possible.

DNA has an expiration date. But proteins are revealing secrets about our ancient ancestors we never thought possible.

Analysis of ancient proteins may fill in the gaps of human evolution left by the decomposition of DNA.

DNA Analysis Reveals Minoan and Mycenaean Genetic Origins

“Saffron Gatherer” from a Minoan fresco in Akrotiri, Santorini. Credit: Public Domain Scientists have recently obtained genetic material and analyzed genome sequences from the ancient Minoans and Mycenaeans, who lived three to five thousand years ago. The analysis suggests that the Minoans and Mycenaeans shared a great deal of their genetic heritage. Dr Iosif Lazaridis from Harvard Medical School in Massachusetts and colleagues focused on burial…