What's Happening?
In a groundbreaking study, scientists in Sweden have successfully recovered RNA from a 130-year-old Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine, marking the first time RNA has been extracted from an extinct animal. Led by Dr. Marc R. Friedländer at Stockholm University,
the research focused on understanding gene expression in the thylacine's tissues. Unlike DNA, which shows what genes exist, RNA reveals which genes were active, providing insights into the animal's biology. The study utilized preserved skin and muscle tissues from a specimen stored in a Swedish museum, employing advanced techniques to ensure the RNA was indeed from the thylacine and not a modern contaminant.
Why It's Important?
This achievement represents a significant advancement in paleotranscriptomics, the study of ancient RNA, and opens new possibilities for understanding extinct species' biology. By analyzing RNA, researchers can gain insights into gene activity, tissue function, and even past diseases, offering a more comprehensive view of extinct animals. This could enhance our understanding of evolutionary processes and inform conservation strategies for endangered species. Additionally, the ability to recover RNA from museum specimens could lead to new discoveries about historical biodiversity and the impact of past environmental changes.
