Human evolution: a tale from ancient genomes. (5th February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Llamas, Bastien; Willerslev, Eske; Orlando, Ludovic
• Is Part Of: Philosophical transactions. Volume 372:Number 1713(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-02-05
• Subjects: ancient DNA -- anthropology -- human evolution -- Archaic hominins; Biology -- Periodicals; Science -- Periodicals; 570
• DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0484
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0962-8436

Abstract

Abstract : The field of human ancient DNA (aDNA) has moved from mitochondrial sequencing that suffered from contamination and provided limited biological insights, to become a fully genomic discipline that is changing our conception of human history. Recent successes include the sequencing of extinct hominins, and true population genomic studies of Bronze Age populations. Among the emerging areas of aDNA research, the analysis of past epigenomes is set to provide more new insights into human adaptation and disease susceptibility through time. Starting as a mere curiosity, ancient human genetics has become a major player in the understanding of our evolutionary history. This article is part of the themed issue 'Evo-devo in the genomics era, and the origins of morphological diversity'.