If the sample has low endogenous DNA (e.g., 99% of the DNA is from soil bacteria), researchers use "baits"—RNA probes that match the target genome—to "fish out" the human or animal DNA of interest. 5. Bioinformatic Authentication The final step is proving the DNA is actually ancient.
Over time, DNA strands break into very short fragments, typically between 30 and 100 base pairs. Ancient DNA: Methods and Protocols
Success begins with choosing the right material. The (part of the skull) and tooth cementum are the "gold standards" because their high density protects DNA from environmental leaching. If the sample has low endogenous DNA (e