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Now you can
say "who" in addition to "when" through the services of
MicroAnalytica.
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Recent
advances in DNA technology allow the wide application of DNA techniques to
archaeology, anthropology, ethnology, and zoo-archaeology. PaleoDNA analysis is possible due to the invention of PCR (polymerase chain reaction).
This process amplifies fragments of damaged DNA so that it is concentrated enough to
perform analyses on them. This wonderful advancement offers researchers the
ability to say "who" in addition to the "when" provided
through radiocarbon dating. One of the first ancient materials to be successfully amplified with
PCR was performed in 1988 using human brain tissue taken from springs in central
Florida (radiocarbon dated by Darden Hood in
1986 to ~7000 bp). |
The
Archaeometry Division of MicroAnalytica
uses special techniques for the accurate and efficient recovery of paleoDNA.
The
invention of PCR has played a strategic role in the evolution of DNA analysis; the human genome
project being the most publicized. This "mapping" of all the human
genes, along with associated mutations may lead to the cure of many debilitating
and deadly diseases. PCR used on DNA in living people is relatively
straightforward and interpretable. Unfortunately, once an organism dies, its DNA
begins to chemically degrade and fragment into ever smaller pieces making conventional DNA
analysis incapable of routinely providing accurate results. Often times, the
remaining DNA is so damaged that the slightest single molecule of modern DNA
present in the sample will be preferentially amplified to the detriment of the
paleoDNA. The Archaeometry Division of MicroAnalytica uses special laboratory
techniques to ensure the efficient and accurate recovery of paleoDNA.
Note:
All samples must be discussed prior to submittal. Please call (1)
305-479-1259 or email dhood@paleoDNA.com.
Description
of Laboratory Procedures/Services
Amino
Acid Racemization
DNA
Extraction
Research
Services
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