What's Happening?
Scientists have discovered RNA molecules from a mammoth that went extinct 40,000 years ago, providing a unique biological snapshot of the creature's final moments. The RNA was extracted from a frozen woolly
mammoth named 'Yuka' found in Siberia. This discovery expands the understanding of mammoth biology and offers insights into the genetic makeup of creatures that lived tens of thousands of years ago. The findings contribute to the study of ancient DNA and the evolutionary history of extinct species.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of ancient RNA is a groundbreaking achievement in paleogenetics, offering new avenues for studying the biology and evolution of extinct species. RNA provides more detailed information than DNA about the cellular processes and environmental interactions of ancient organisms. This could lead to advancements in understanding the genetic adaptations and survival strategies of Ice Age mammals. The findings also have implications for the study of genetic preservation and the potential for reconstructing extinct species.
