DNA analysis of ancient skeletal remains

Area of Science:

• Archaeogenetics
• Bioarchaeology
• Forensic Anthropology

Background:

• Rescue archaeological excavations at Knezeves near Prague uncovered human remains dating to the Late and Final Bronze Age.
• A collection of 11 human individuals from three settlement features, approximately 3,000 years old, was selected for detailed study.

Observation:

• Initial sex determination was performed using traditional anthropological methods.
• Ancient DNA was extracted from bone samples using established phenol-chloroform procedures and N-phenacetylthiazolum bromide.
• Genetic analysis involved Polymerase Chain Reaction amplification of the AMEL XY gene, followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Short Tandem Repeats (STR) analysis.

Findings:

• DNA profiles were generated using autosomal STR markers, enabling the assessment of familial relationships (parent-descendant).
• The genetic sex determination results showed congruence with anthropological assessments, confirming the reliability of the applied genetic techniques.
• The study successfully established genetic profiles for individuals, revealing their sex and potential kinship.

Implications:

• Genetic methods, including ancient DNA analysis, are highly effective for sex determination in challenging skeletal remains, such as fragmented or subadult samples.
• This research enhances bioarchaeological interpretations by providing precise biological data from ancient populations.
• The findings support the utility of archaeogenetics in reconstructing social structures and familial ties in past communities.