Overview
- Researchers isolated RNA from muscle tissue of the mammoth known as Yuka, setting a new record far beyond the previous 14,000-year benchmark from a Pleistocene wolf.
- Sequencing revealed tissue-specific gene expression and molecular signs of stress in Yuka’s muscle at the time of death.
- Non-coding RNAs, including muscle-specific microRNAs with rare mutations, authenticated the sequences’ mammoth origin and enabled detection of novel genes.
- The team screened 10 permafrost-preserved mammoth samples, but only Yuka produced detailed transcriptomic data, underscoring dependence on exceptional preservation.
- Authors say the approach could eventually allow studies of ancient RNA viruses or inform de-extinction research, though such applications remain speculative.