Scientists Reconstruct 3D Genome of 52,000-Year-Old Freeze-Dried Siberian Woolly Mammoth

Jul 11, 2024, 09:06 PM

Scientists have successfully reconstructed the three-dimensional genome of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth using exceptionally well-preserved DNA obtained from freeze-dried skin in Siberia. This groundbreaking discovery, published in Cell, marks the first time ancient non-mineral chromosomes have been recovered in such detail, providing a wealth of genetic data. The preserved chromosomes reveal insights into the mammoth's genome architecture, including chromatin loops and inactive/active compartments. This achievement could significantly advance efforts to resurrect the extinct species, as the detailed genetic information may help scientists understand the mammoth's unique adaptations to cold environments and its similarities with modern elephants.