Methodological Changes in the Field of Paleogenetics

Paleogenetics has significantly changed since its inception almost forty years ago. Initially, molecular techniques available to the researchers offered minimal possibilities for ancient DNA analysis. The subsequent expansion of the scientific tool cabinet allowed for more remarkable achievements, combined has with the newfound popularity of this budding field of science. Finally, a breakthrough was made with the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and the update of DNA isolation protocols, through which even very fragmented aDNA samples could be used to sequence whole genomes. In this paper, we review the achievements made thus far and compare the methodologies utilized in this field of science, discussing their benefits and challenges.

Automated summary

Paleogenetics has undergone significant changes since its inception. Initially, limited molecular techniques hindered ancient DNA analysis. However, advancements in scientific tools, as well as the popularity of this field, have led to remarkable achievements. Breakthroughs in next-generation sequencing technologies and DNA isolation protocols have enabled the sequencing of whole genomes even from highly fragmented aDNA samples.