In 1967, an underground cistern known as a chultun was discovered near a sacred body of water at Chichen Itza, an important ancient Maya city on Mexico's Yucatan peninsula. Skeletal remains of more than 100 children were found inside.

Now, DNA obtained from 64 of them is offering insight into child sacrifice at Chichen Itza in the centuries before Europeans reached the New World. Those entombed were all boys - some of them brothers, including two sets of identical twins - killed during religious rituals, scientists said on Wednesday. Most were ages 3 to 6.

Most were interred in the mass grave during the pinnacle of Chichen Itza's political and cultural clout, from about 800 AD to 1000 AD, though some were buried in the centuries before and after that, covering a 500-year span ending at around 1100.

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Twins figure prominently in ancient Maya religion and art, and sacrificing twins is described in sacred writings, including a book called the Popol Vuh. The Mayan Hero Twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, underwent cycles of sacrifice and resurrection as they confronted gods of the underworld. Subterranean structures like the chultun were considered entrances to the underworld, central to Maya cosmogony.

"Ritual sacrifice was a common practice among ancient Mesoamerican populations. However, the biological relationships between the sacrificed individuals had not been described before," said archaeogeneticist Rodrigo Barquera of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI-EVA) in Germany, lead author of the study published in the journal Nature.

"We think that the people from Chichen Itza were trying to symbolically replicate the Mayan mythological stories and the representation of the twin heroes in this ritual burial," Barquera added. "For Maya, and Mesoamerican cultures in general, death is the ultimate offering, and as such, sacrifices bear high importance to their beliefs system."

Chichen Itza is known for its stunning architecture, including an impressive pyramid structure now called El Castillo. Nearby is a sacred water-filled sinkhole called a cenote, where the bodies of more than 200 people were found. And close to that is the chultun where the boys were buried.

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"The original purpose of chultuns was to store fresh water. This one had been repurposed into a funerary chamber adjacent to a small natural cave. Both the chultun and the cave were filled with human remains," Barquera said.

DNA was extracted from the petrous portion of the temporal bone, which houses the inner ear. This small bone has proven optimal in preserving ancient DNA.

"We sampled only the left portion because that would make sure we sampled every individual only once. It was not preserved for every individual in the chultun, therefore we sampled only a subset," said MPI-EVA archaeogeneticist and study co-author Kathrin Nägele.

"From the genetic similarities of two individuals, we can calculate the degree of genetic relationship. In this case, we found two pairs who were so similar they could only be identical twins, and at least three more who were full siblings. They could have also been twins, but fraternal twins, coming from two different egg cells," Nägele said. "This is the first time we are able to confidently identify identical twins in the archaeological record."

The research contradicted an idea popularized in the 20th century that the ancient Maya preferred female sacrifices.

The researchers also compared the genomes of the boys to those of present-day Maya communities, including people from the village of Tixcacaltuyub near Chichen Itza's ruins. They identified genetic traits in modern Maya likely arising from immune system adaptations by their ancestors to an epidemic bacterial infection during Spanish colonization.

It remains unclear how the boys died.

"There are no cut marks or evidence of trauma, which tells us how did they not die. But we have not found a cause of death for them yet," Barquera said.

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"During the Spanish colonial period, thousands of Maya books and texts were systematically burned, and there were concerted efforts to stamp out Maya religious beliefs and activities and replace them with Christianity," said Harvard University biomolecular archaeologist and study co-author Christina Warinner.

"As a result, there are many gaps in our knowledge about the specific ritual practices performed by the ancient Maya - and especially their meaning," Warinner added. "Among these, human sacrifice remains one of the most misunderstood ritual acts." 
&nbsp;

In 1967, an underground cistern known as a chultun was discovered near a sacred body of water at Chichen Itza, an important ancient Maya city on Mexico's Yucatan peninsula.

In 1967, an underground cistern known as a chultun was discovered near a sacred body of water at Chichen Itza, an important ancient Maya city on Mexico's Yucatan peninsula. Skeletal remains of more than 100 children were found inside. Now, DNA obtained from 64 of them is offering insight into child sacrifice at Chichen Itza in the centuries before Europeans reached the New World. Those entombed were all boys - some of them brothers, including two sets of identical twins - killed during religious rituals, scientists said on Wednesday. Most were ages 3 to 6. Most were interred in the mass grave during the pinnacle of Chichen Itza's political and cultural clout, from about 800 AD to 1000 AD, though some were buried in the centuries before and after that, covering a 500-year span ending at around 1100. Also read: This rare 'blue room' was Pompeii city's shrine in ancient times Twins figure prominently in ancient Maya religion and art, and sacrificing twins is described in sacred writings, including a book called the Popol Vuh. The Mayan Hero Twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, underwent cycles of sacrifice and resurrection as they confronted gods of the underworld. Subterranean structures like the chultun were considered entrances to the underworld, central to Maya cosmogony. "Ritual sacrifice was a common practice among ancient Mesoamerican populations. However, the biological relationships between the sacrificed individuals had not been described before," said archaeogeneticist Rodrigo Barquera of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI-EVA) in Germany, lead author of the study published in the journal Nature. "We think that the people from Chichen Itza were trying to symbolically replicate the Mayan mythological stories and the representation of the twin heroes in this ritual burial," Barquera added. "For Maya, and Mesoamerican cultures in general, death is the ultimate offering, and as such, sacrifices bear high importance to their beliefs system." Chichen Itza is known for its stunning architecture, including an impressive pyramid structure now called El Castillo. Nearby is a sacred water-filled sinkhole called a cenote, where the bodies of more than 200 people were found. And close to that is the chultun where the boys were buried. Also read: NASA audio leak detailing emergency on ISS creates panic; space agency dismisses concerns "The original purpose of chultuns was to store fresh water. This one had been repurposed into a funerary chamber adjacent to a small natural cave. Both the chultun and the cave were filled with human remains," Barquera said. DNA was extracted from the petrous portion of the temporal bone, which houses the inner ear. This small bone has proven optimal in preserving ancient DNA. "We sampled only the left portion because that would make sure we sampled every individual only once. It was not preserved for every individual in the chultun, therefore we sampled only a subset," said MPI-EVA archaeogeneticist and study co-author Kathrin Nägele. "From the genetic similarities of two individuals, we can calculate the degree of genetic relationship. In this case, we found two pairs who were so similar they could only be identical twins, and at least three more who were full siblings. They could have also been twins, but fraternal twins, coming from two different egg cells," Nägele said. "This is the first time we are able to confidently identify identical twins in the archaeological record." The research contradicted an idea popularized in the 20th century that the ancient Maya preferred female sacrifices. The researchers also compared the genomes of the boys to those of present-day Maya communities, including people from the village of Tixcacaltuyub near Chichen Itza's ruins. They identified genetic traits in modern Maya likely arising from immune system adaptations by their ancestors to an epidemic bacterial infection during Spanish colonization. It remains unclear how the boys died. "There are no cut marks or evidence of trauma, which tells us how did they not die. But we have not found a cause of death for them yet," Barquera said. Also read: 'Aliens' and UFO civilisation could be living on Earth in 'stealth' mode: Report "During the Spanish colonial period, thousands of Maya books and texts were systematically burned, and there were concerted efforts to stamp out Maya religious beliefs and activities and replace them with Christianity," said Harvard University biomolecular archaeologist and study co-author Christina Warinner. "As a result, there are many gaps in our knowledge about the specific ritual practices performed by the ancient Maya - and especially their meaning," Warinner added. "Among these, human sacrifice remains one of the most misunderstood ritual acts."

Maya sacrifice of twin boys revealed by DNA from Chichen Itza

A prehistoric man, believed to have drowned around 4,000 years ago, has been reconstructed to show his likely appearance during his lifetime. A team from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim created this image&nbsp;using measurements of his skeletal remains and DNA data.

The remains were first discovered in 1916 on the island of Hitra, located off Norway's west coast, by workers upgrading a road to a farm. These remains belong to a man who died in his mid-20s around 4,000 years ago, near the end of the Stone Age, as reported by Newsweek.

At the time of the man's death, the sea level in the area was higher than it is today, and the site where his remains were found would have been approximately 13 feet underwater. Therefore, archaeologists speculate that he may have drowned.

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"We think that he drowned. Parts of the skeleton are well preserved, and must have been covered with shell sand on the seabed shortly after he died," archaeologist Birgitte Skar with the NTNU University Museum said in a press release.

The measurements of the man's remains suggest he stood at around 5 feet, 6 inches tall. Furthermore, through DNA analyses of several other individuals from the same era with comparable genetic profiles, experts managed to reconstruct the colour of his hair, skin, and eyes. These examinations revealed that he had blonde&nbsp;hair and blue eyes.

Skar indicated&nbsp;that artefacts discovered alongside the man imply a possible "warrior" status. These items include a dagger and an arm guard—a bone object shaped like an oblong, meant to safeguard the wrist of one hand while using a bow and arrow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/women-in-prehistoric-times-were-not-only-gatherers-but-hunters-too-study-650213">Also read |&nbsp;Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests</a>

Currently, it remains uncertain whether the Hitra man drowned accidentally or as a result of some form of conflict. Nonetheless, the era in which he lived was marked by substantial transformations in the dynamics of prehistoric human communities in the area, particularly the emergence of agriculture.

(With inputs from agencies)

A prehistoric man, believed to have drowned around 4,000 years ago, has been reconstructed to show his likely appearance during his lifetime. A team from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim created this image using measurements of his skeletal remains and DNA data.

A prehistoric man, believed to have drowned around 4,000 years ago, has been reconstructed to show his likely appearance during his lifetime. A team from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim created this image using measurements of his skeletal remains and DNA data. The remains were first discovered in 1916 on the island of Hitra, located off Norway's west coast, by workers upgrading a road to a farm. These remains belong to a man who died in his mid-20s around 4,000 years ago, near the end of the Stone Age, as reported by Newsweek. At the time of the man's death, the sea level in the area was higher than it is today, and the site where his remains were found would have been approximately 13 feet underwater. Therefore, archaeologists speculate that he may have drowned. Also read | Archaeologists discover a massive 7000-year-old pre-historic settlement in Serbia "We think that he drowned. Parts of the skeleton are well preserved, and must have been covered with shell sand on the seabed shortly after he died," archaeologist Birgitte Skar with the NTNU University Museum said in a press release. The measurements of the man's remains suggest he stood at around 5 feet, 6 inches tall. Furthermore, through DNA analyses of several other individuals from the same era with comparable genetic profiles, experts managed to reconstruct the colour of his hair, skin, and eyes. These examinations revealed that he had blonde hair and blue eyes. Skar indicated that artefacts discovered alongside the man imply a possible "warrior" status. These items include a dagger and an arm guard—a bone object shaped like an oblong, meant to safeguard the wrist of one hand while using a bow and arrow. Also read | Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests Currently, it remains uncertain whether the Hitra man drowned accidentally or as a result of some form of conflict. Nonetheless, the era in which he lived was marked by substantial transformations in the dynamics of prehistoric human communities in the area, particularly the emergence of agriculture. (With inputs from agencies)

Face of Stone Age man thought to have drowned 4,000 years ago reconstructed

Using new DNA technologies, scientists have identified the historical remains of American Founding Father George Washington's family. The fragmentary bones from Harewood family cemetery in West Virginia belong to George Washington's grandnephews, Samuel Walter Washington and George Steptoe Washington Jr., and their mother, Lucy Payne Washington.

<h2>What next?</h2>

Scientists now plan to validate the advanced DNA analysis techniques to their ongoing efforts to identify the remains of members of the US troops who died around the world in past conflicts till as far back as second World War.

The findings were published in the journal iScience.

"The ability to test historical samples such as the Harewood Cemetery remains allows us to evaluate and improve the methodologies applied to our casework samples that are of similar quality to historical remains, and often times even more degraded," first author Courtney Cavagnino of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System's Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFMES-AFDIL) at the Dover Air Force Base, said in an official statement.

"This particular case gave us an opportunity to test methods for extended kinship prediction that we developed using a set of known, degraded DNA samples needing identity confirmation," senior author Charla Marshall, Deputy Director of DoD DNA Operations, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hair-samples-of-three-us-presidents-to-be-sent-into-space-to-help-future-people-learn-more-about-us-history-669165">Hair samples of three US presidents are being sent into space. Here`s why</a>

"Our laboratory is currently validating these novel methods to be used in routine casework."

AFMES-AFDIL is the US Department of Defense's only human remains DNA laboratory. It supports day-to-day&nbsp;operations as well as the mission to ascertain the identity of troop members from past conflicts extending back to World War II.

In the latest study, the AFMES-AFDIL team set out to identify remains from unmarked grave sites at Harewood Cemetery.

Also watch |&nbsp;Researchers use robots in Parkinson's study - WION

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Scientists performed a range of DNA tests of the suspected remains of individuals of interest, including George Washington's family members.

They corelated its results with analyses of the DNA from a living descendant, S.W. Washington.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Using new DNA technologies, scientists have identified the historical remains of American Founding Father George Washington's family. The fragmentary bones from Harewood family cemetery in West Virginia belong to George Washington's grandnephews, Samuel Walter Washington and George Steptoe Washington Jr.

Using new DNA technologies, scientists have identified the historical remains of American Founding Father George Washington's family. The fragmentary bones from Harewood family cemetery in West Virginia belong to George Washington's grandnephews, Samuel Walter Washington and George Steptoe Washington Jr., and their mother, Lucy Payne Washington. What next? Scientists now plan to validate the advanced DNA analysis techniques to their ongoing efforts to identify the remains of members of the US troops who died around the world in past conflicts till as far back as second World War. The findings were published in the journal iScience. "The ability to test historical samples such as the Harewood Cemetery remains allows us to evaluate and improve the methodologies applied to our casework samples that are of similar quality to historical remains, and often times even more degraded," first author Courtney Cavagnino of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System's Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFMES-AFDIL) at the Dover Air Force Base, said in an official statement. "This particular case gave us an opportunity to test methods for extended kinship prediction that we developed using a set of known, degraded DNA samples needing identity confirmation," senior author Charla Marshall, Deputy Director of DoD DNA Operations, said. Also read | Hair samples of three US presidents are being sent into space. Here`s why "Our laboratory is currently validating these novel methods to be used in routine casework." AFMES-AFDIL is the US Department of Defense's only human remains DNA laboratory. It supports day-to-day operations as well as the mission to ascertain the identity of troop members from past conflicts extending back to World War II. In the latest study, the AFMES-AFDIL team set out to identify remains from unmarked grave sites at Harewood Cemetery. Also watch | Researchers use robots in Parkinson's study - WION × Scientists performed a range of DNA tests of the suspected remains of individuals of interest, including George Washington's family members. They corelated its results with analyses of the DNA from a living descendant, S.W. Washington. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members, using advanced DNA technology

Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos.

Not just this, this DNA could have had a connection to northern China over 100,000 years ago.&nbsp;Denisovans were an ancient human population that lived tens of thousands of years ago and were closely related to but distinct from both modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals.

They are known primarily through genetic evidence extracted from fossil remains found in the Denisova Cave in Siberia, Russia. Despite their genetic legacy in modern humans, their physical appearance has largely eluded discovery.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-identify-remains-of-george-washingtons-family-members-using-advanced-dna-technology-706203">Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology</a>

Recent findings pointed out a possible connection between Denisovans and a newly identified species, Homo longi, also known as "Dragon man."

These are characterised by distinctive features such as a broad nose and thick brow ridges. This breakthrough suggested a deeper understanding of Denisovan traits and their evolutionary lineage.

Evidence of Denisovan genes in Tibetan populations also highlighted their interbreeding with Homo sapiens which could have potentially influenced modern humans' ability to thrive at high altitudes.

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Surprising discoveries, like a Denisovan jawbone in a Tibetan cave, further strengthen the link between Denisovans and Homo longi. This has now fuelled speculation about their shared ancestry.

“We now believe that the Denisovans were members of the Homo longi species,” Professor Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing reportedly said.

“The latter is ­characterised by a broad nose, thick brow ridges over its eyes and large tooth sockets," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Absence of Chinese fossils&nbsp;</h2>

However, challenges persist in unraveling Denisovan mysteries, including the absence of DNA in Chinese fossils.

Yet, innovative techniques like proteomics are now seem to be offering promising avenues for extracting information from ancient proteins.

<section>
Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/solar-eclipse-canadas-niagara-declares-state-of-emergency-706169">Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency</a>

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Janet Kelso of the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany reportedly said, “It was the first time a Denisovan fossil find had been made outside Siberia and that was very important."
</section>

“Equally intriguing was the fact that the jawbone has teeth that are similar to the teeth found in Homo longi. So I think the evidence suggests a link between the cranium and Denisovans," Kelso added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos.

Denisovans, a group of ancient humans, continue to intrigue researchers with their elusive presence. Now, as per a new research, traces of their DNA hint at their journey from the Tibetan plateau to regions as far-flung as the Philippines and Laos. Not just this, this DNA could have had a connection to northern China over 100,000 years ago. Denisovans were an ancient human population that lived tens of thousands of years ago and were closely related to but distinct from both modern humans (Homo sapiens) and Neanderthals. They are known primarily through genetic evidence extracted from fossil remains found in the Denisova Cave in Siberia, Russia. Despite their genetic legacy in modern humans, their physical appearance has largely eluded discovery. Also Read | Scientists identify remains of George Washington's family members using advanced DNA technology Recent findings pointed out a possible connection between Denisovans and a newly identified species, Homo longi, also known as "Dragon man." These are characterised by distinctive features such as a broad nose and thick brow ridges. This breakthrough suggested a deeper understanding of Denisovan traits and their evolutionary lineage. Evidence of Denisovan genes in Tibetan populations also highlighted their interbreeding with Homo sapiens which could have potentially influenced modern humans' ability to thrive at high altitudes. Also Read | Powerful solar flare causes ‘deep shortwave radio blackout over Pacific Ocean’ Surprising discoveries, like a Denisovan jawbone in a Tibetan cave, further strengthen the link between Denisovans and Homo longi. This has now fuelled speculation about their shared ancestry. “We now believe that the Denisovans were members of the Homo longi species,” Professor Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing reportedly said. “The latter is characterised by a broad nose, thick brow ridges over its eyes and large tooth sockets," he added. Absence of Chinese fossils However, challenges persist in unraveling Denisovan mysteries, including the absence of DNA in Chinese fossils. Yet, innovative techniques like proteomics are now seem to be offering promising avenues for extracting information from ancient proteins. Watch | Solar eclipse: Canada's Niagara declares state of emergency × Janet Kelso of the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany reportedly said, “It was the first time a Denisovan fossil find had been made outside Siberia and that was very important." “Equally intriguing was the fact that the jawbone has teeth that are similar to the teeth found in Homo longi. So I think the evidence suggests a link between the cranium and Denisovans," Kelso added. (With inputs from agencies)

Denisovans DNA shows connection with ‘dragon man’ 100,000 years ago

Archaeologists recovered ancient DNA from the remains of a sixth-century Chinese emperor who was a ruler during the dark ages of the country and reconstructed the face of the king.

Emperor Wu ruled a part of the Northern Zhou dynasty in China. He is credited to have carried out the unification of ancient China's northern part during a chaotic period.

In 1996, archaeologists discovered a tomb in northwestern China. In a study which was published in the journal Current Biology on Thursday (Mar 28), the researchers studied the genetic material retrieved from his remains, which included an almost complete skull.

The archaeologists looked into the information to understand the monarch's appearance, health and ancestry.

According to the archaeologists, the emperor was part of a little-studied nomadic group known as the Xianbei and stayed in the area which today is a part of northern and northeastern China and Mongolia.

The experts analysed the genome sequenced from the DNA which suggested that Wu had black hair, brown eyes,&nbsp;and dark skin colour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-dna-study-suggests-people-came-to-india-from-this-country-50000-years-ago-698050">New DNA study suggests humans came to India from THIS country 50,000 years ago</a>

In a press release, study co-author and an associate professor at Fudan University in Shanghai Shaoqing Wen said, “Some scholars said the Xianbei had ‘exotic’ looks, such as thick beard, high nose bridge, and yellow hair."

“Our analysis shows Emperor Wu had typical East or Northeast Asian facial characteristics," he added.

<h2>Archaeologists hope to decode king's cause of death</h2>

The experts have been hoping that the ancient DNA may also reveal the cause of the death of King Wu. As per the study, he died suddenly at age 36.

If his demise is explained, it will help historians rework historical texts around either illness or deliberate poisoning.

The team failed to discover any definitive evidence of the reason for his death. The researchers, however, said that they found a genetic susceptibility to stroke.

Ancient DNA techniques are being increasingly applied by archaeologists to find information regarding bones, teeth, artefacts and cave dirt.

The genetic information derived from the remains - which included the skull of Wu - was used by the team to imagine how he appeared and created a 3D facial reconstruction of the king.

Watch:&nbsp;Archaeologists try to unearth ‘India’s oldest temple’ in Madhya Pradesh

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Tobias Houlton, a lecturer in craniofacial identification and forensic imaging at the University of Dundee&nbsp;said, “The study … offers intriguing insights into the historical figure of Emperor Wu, with the facial approximation presented appearing convincingly realistic."

“(Skin, hair and eye) colour details are notably not possible to predict from skeletal remains alone, making genetic analysis an insightful tool," he added while speaking to CNN.

(With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists recovered ancient DNA from the remains of a sixth-century Chinese emperor who was a ruler during the dark ages of the country and reconstructed the face of the king.

Archaeologists recovered ancient DNA from the remains of a sixth-century Chinese emperor who was a ruler during the dark ages of the country and reconstructed the face of the king. Emperor Wu ruled a part of the Northern Zhou dynasty in China. He is credited to have carried out the unification of ancient China's northern part during a chaotic period. In 1996, archaeologists discovered a tomb in northwestern China. In a study which was published in the journal Current Biology on Thursday (Mar 28), the researchers studied the genetic material retrieved from his remains, which included an almost complete skull. The archaeologists looked into the information to understand the monarch's appearance, health and ancestry. According to the archaeologists, the emperor was part of a little-studied nomadic group known as the Xianbei and stayed in the area which today is a part of northern and northeastern China and Mongolia. The experts analysed the genome sequenced from the DNA which suggested that Wu had black hair, brown eyes, and dark skin colour. Also Read: New DNA study suggests humans came to India from THIS country 50,000 years ago In a press release, study co-author and an associate professor at Fudan University in Shanghai Shaoqing Wen said, “Some scholars said the Xianbei had ‘exotic’ looks, such as thick beard, high nose bridge, and yellow hair." “Our analysis shows Emperor Wu had typical East or Northeast Asian facial characteristics," he added. Archaeologists hope to decode king's cause of death The experts have been hoping that the ancient DNA may also reveal the cause of the death of King Wu. As per the study, he died suddenly at age 36. If his demise is explained, it will help historians rework historical texts around either illness or deliberate poisoning. The team failed to discover any definitive evidence of the reason for his death. The researchers, however, said that they found a genetic susceptibility to stroke. Ancient DNA techniques are being increasingly applied by archaeologists to find information regarding bones, teeth, artefacts and cave dirt. The genetic information derived from the remains - which included the skull of Wu - was used by the team to imagine how he appeared and created a 3D facial reconstruction of the king. Watch: Archaeologists try to unearth ‘India’s oldest temple’ in Madhya Pradesh Tobias Houlton, a lecturer in craniofacial identification and forensic imaging at the University of Dundee said, “The study … offers intriguing insights into the historical figure of Emperor Wu, with the facial approximation presented appearing convincingly realistic." “(Skin, hair and eye) colour details are notably not possible to predict from skeletal remains alone, making genetic analysis an insightful tool," he added while speaking to CNN. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists used ancient DNA to construct the face of the sixth-century Chinese emperor

People who vape suffer similar changes to their DNA as smokers who develop cancer, researchers have revealed. Watch to know more.

Vaping 'linked to cancer and damages body like smoking': News Study

Researchers carried out a new study to trace back the footprints of human civilization in India - the most populous country in the world - with the help of genes.

The new study has tried to understand the scenario 50,000 years ago by analysing thousands of genomes. The DNA samples of 2,762 Indians - belonged&nbsp;to people from&nbsp;various geographic locations, caste and tribe groups and those speaking different languages - were sequenced by the University of California, Berkley population geneticist Elise Kerdoncuff and his colleagues.

Speaking about the study, Kerdoncuff and colleagues wrote in their preprint, "These analyses provide a detailed view of the population history of India and underscore the value of expanding genomic surveys to diverse groups outside Europe."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heres-why-humans-tails-disappeared-25-million-years-ago-695417">Here's why human tails disappeared 25 million years ago</a>

In the earlier studies carried out, it was hinted that Indians derive ancestry from ancient Iranian farmers, herders from the Eurasian steppe and indigenous South Asian hunter-gatherers.

It was found by Kerdoncuff and colleagues that ancestry to those three groups varied among modern individuals in India.

In the study, the researchers also found that the ancient Iranian farmers were most likely part of the influx of farmers from Sarazm, which is an ancient agricultural hub in what is known as Tajikistan.

"Societies were far more connected in deep time than most have given them credit for," said Michael Frachetti, an archaeologist at Washington University in St Louis, while speaking to Science.

<h2>Indian genomes contain diverse Neanderthal and Denisovan genes&nbsp;</h2>

It was further found by Kerdoncuff and colleagues that one to two per cent ancestry is derived in modern Indians from archaic hominins, Neanderthals and Denisovans.

The researchers, in a surprise discovery, found that the analysed genomes had a wide variety of Neanderthal and Denisovan genes, in comparison to other sampled populations.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Researchers identify gene variant that makes Indians susceptible to diabetes

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"Strikingly, [about] 90.7 per cent of worldwide Neanderthal sequences are seen in India" and "around 51 per cent of Denisovan sequences are unique to India," wrote Kerdoncuff and colleagues.

Finally, they found out that most of the genetic variation in Indians came from one major migration from Africa which took place around 50,000 years ago, while the earlier migration waves also contributed little genetic material to today's population in India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers carried out a new study to trace back the footprints of human civilization in India - the most populous country in the world - with the help of genes.

Researchers carried out a new study to trace back the footprints of human civilization in India - the most populous country in the world - with the help of genes. The new study has tried to understand the scenario 50,000 years ago by analysing thousands of genomes. The DNA samples of 2,762 Indians - belonged to people from various geographic locations, caste and tribe groups and those speaking different languages - were sequenced by the University of California, Berkley population geneticist Elise Kerdoncuff and his colleagues. Speaking about the study, Kerdoncuff and colleagues wrote in their preprint, "These analyses provide a detailed view of the population history of India and underscore the value of expanding genomic surveys to diverse groups outside Europe." Also Read: Here's why human tails disappeared 25 million years ago In the earlier studies carried out, it was hinted that Indians derive ancestry from ancient Iranian farmers, herders from the Eurasian steppe and indigenous South Asian hunter-gatherers. It was found by Kerdoncuff and colleagues that ancestry to those three groups varied among modern individuals in India. In the study, the researchers also found that the ancient Iranian farmers were most likely part of the influx of farmers from Sarazm, which is an ancient agricultural hub in what is known as Tajikistan. "Societies were far more connected in deep time than most have given them credit for," said Michael Frachetti, an archaeologist at Washington University in St Louis, while speaking to Science. Indian genomes contain diverse Neanderthal and Denisovan genes It was further found by Kerdoncuff and colleagues that one to two per cent ancestry is derived in modern Indians from archaic hominins, Neanderthals and Denisovans. The researchers, in a surprise discovery, found that the analysed genomes had a wide variety of Neanderthal and Denisovan genes, in comparison to other sampled populations. Watch: Gravitas: Researchers identify gene variant that makes Indians susceptible to diabetes "Strikingly, [about] 90.7 per cent of worldwide Neanderthal sequences are seen in India" and "around 51 per cent of Denisovan sequences are unique to India," wrote Kerdoncuff and colleagues. Finally, they found out that most of the genetic variation in Indians came from one major migration from Africa which took place around 50,000 years ago, while the earlier migration waves also contributed little genetic material to today's population in India. (With inputs from agencies)

New DNA study suggests humans came to India from THIS country 50,000 years ago

Google accounts can be accessed without passwords. Hackers can bypass Google's two-factor authentication. Watch to know more!

Hackers can now access your Google account without password

A breakthrough brought closure to a nearly 25-year-old mystery as Kentucky State Police (KSP) in Mayfield successfully identified the human remains discovered on May 6, 1999, in Lake Barkley, Lyon County as that of Roger Dale Parham, a fugitive wanted by the FBI.&nbsp;Parham was arrested for rape involving a minor in 1998 but he disappeared while his trial was ongoing.&nbsp;

The case, shrouded in uncertainty for decades, saw a resolution through the aid of advanced DNA technology.

Initially found by two fishermen, the remains were intricately wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored with a hydraulic jack. Traditional investigative techniques proved futile in identifying the male at the time, prompting an exhumation in 2016.

Despite exhaustive efforts, including DNA technology, dental examinations, forensic pathology, and other advanced forensic testing, the victim remained unidentified.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-start-closing-bridges-with-mexico-to-contain-surge-in-immigration-671644">US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration</a>

The case was registered in the National Missing and Unidentified Person System (NAMUS) as case: UP# 75.

<h2>Turning point in 2023&nbsp;</h2>

The turning point came in early 2023 when Kentucky State Police partnered with Othram Inc., a private forensic lab specialising in forensic genealogy.

This collaboration, alongside NAMUS, allowed for advanced genealogy DNA testing, leading to the identification of the remains as that of fugitive Roger Dale Parham.

The revelation triggered investigators who started to dig out a cascade of information about Parham.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-retailers-shift-to-lower-prices-raises-concerns-of-deepening-deflation-671637">Chinese retailers' shift to lower prices raises concerns of deepening deflation&nbsp;</a>

"On November 21, 1998, Roger Dale Parham was arrested for rape involving a minor. He was subsequently released on bond with conditions, by the Circuit Court of Sebastian County, Arkansas, Fort Smith District. Parham's bond was revoked after he failed to appear on the charge of rape," as per FBI.

In March 1999, he disappeared, believed to have fled the area to escape prosecution. "On June 3, 1999, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. A federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court, Western District of Arkansas, Fort Smith, Arkansas, on September 10, 1999, after Parham was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution," an FBI statement added.

While the cause of Roger Parham's death remains undetermined, the circumstances surrounding the discovery of his remains have prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colorado-supreme-court-declares-donald-trump-ineligible-for-white-house-671642">Colorado Supreme Court declares Donald Trump ‘ineligible’ for White House</a>

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"Anyone who has information regarding the death of Parham is urged to call Kentucky State Police Post 1- Mayfield at (270)-856-3721. Tips can also be provided by accessing the Kentucky State Police website," the police said in a statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A breakthrough brought closure to a nearly 25-year-old mystery as Kentucky State Police (KSP) in Mayfield successfully identified the human remains discovered on May 6, 1999, in Lake Barkley, Lyon County as that of Roger Dale Parham, a fugitive wanted by the FBI.

A breakthrough brought closure to a nearly 25-year-old mystery as Kentucky State Police (KSP) in Mayfield successfully identified the human remains discovered on May 6, 1999, in Lake Barkley, Lyon County as that of Roger Dale Parham, a fugitive wanted by the FBI. Parham was arrested for rape involving a minor in 1998 but he disappeared while his trial was ongoing. The case, shrouded in uncertainty for decades, saw a resolution through the aid of advanced DNA technology. Initially found by two fishermen, the remains were intricately wrapped in heavy tire chains and anchored with a hydraulic jack. Traditional investigative techniques proved futile in identifying the male at the time, prompting an exhumation in 2016. Despite exhaustive efforts, including DNA technology, dental examinations, forensic pathology, and other advanced forensic testing, the victim remained unidentified. Also Read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration The case was registered in the National Missing and Unidentified Person System (NAMUS) as case: UP# 75. Turning point in 2023 The turning point came in early 2023 when Kentucky State Police partnered with Othram Inc., a private forensic lab specialising in forensic genealogy. This collaboration, alongside NAMUS, allowed for advanced genealogy DNA testing, leading to the identification of the remains as that of fugitive Roger Dale Parham. The revelation triggered investigators who started to dig out a cascade of information about Parham. Also Read | Chinese retailers' shift to lower prices raises concerns of deepening deflation "On November 21, 1998, Roger Dale Parham was arrested for rape involving a minor. He was subsequently released on bond with conditions, by the Circuit Court of Sebastian County, Arkansas, Fort Smith District. Parham's bond was revoked after he failed to appear on the charge of rape," as per FBI. In March 1999, he disappeared, believed to have fled the area to escape prosecution. "On June 3, 1999, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. A federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court, Western District of Arkansas, Fort Smith, Arkansas, on September 10, 1999, after Parham was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution," an FBI statement added. While the cause of Roger Parham's death remains undetermined, the circumstances surrounding the discovery of his remains have prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide. Watch | Colorado Supreme Court declares Donald Trump ‘ineligible’ for White House × "Anyone who has information regarding the death of Parham is urged to call Kentucky State Police Post 1- Mayfield at (270)-856-3721. Tips can also be provided by accessing the Kentucky State Police website," the police said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

A mystery solved: Body found in Kentucky lake 25 years back is of FBI-wanted rape accused

A new study suggests that genetic materials from our Neanderthal ancestors may be responsible for our habit of waking up early. For the results, published in the journal Genome Biology and Evolution on December 14, researchers combined the ancient DNA of Neanderthals, large-scale genetic studies in modern humans, and artificial intelligence for the study.&nbsp;

Experts often study the archaeological evidence of Neanderthals and learn about their life and our history. Scientists have previously established that around 700,000 years ago, our lineages split apart, most likely in Africa.&nbsp;

The modern humans largely stayed in Africa and the Neanderthal lineage migrated into Eurasia, where they encountered diverse new environments.&nbsp;

They experienced higher latitudes with greater seasonal variation in daylight and temperature — all of it impacted their way of living.&nbsp;

The population split in two about 400,000 years ago with hominins spreading west becoming Neanderthals and their cousins to the east becoming a group known as Denisovans.&nbsp;

Former studies have found that the two groups lived for hundreds of thousands of years, but about 40,000 years ago, they disappeared from the fossil record. &nbsp;

By then, modern humans had expanded out of Africa, sometimes even interbreeding with Neanderthals and Denisovans. And the fragments of their DNA can be found in most living humans even today.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/evolution-for-lust-male-sea-snakes-have-big-eyes-to-ogle-at-opposite-sex-669723">Evolution for lust? Male sea snakes have big eyes to ogle at opposite sex</a>&nbsp;

Now, a team of researchers at Vanderbilt University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of California San Francisco studied genetic data from a catalogue of hundreds of thousands of people in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

For the study, they performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to look for traits linked to the habit of waking up early in the morning.&nbsp;

Notably, the process of GWAS helps scientists to identify genes associated with a particular disease, or another trait.&nbsp;

Earlier, the experts have noted that this particular method studies the entire set of DNA of a large group of people, searching for small variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs.&nbsp;

The researchers have inferred differences in circadian gene sequences, splicing, and regulation between archaic hominins and modern humans.&nbsp;

They identified 28 circadian genes containing variants with the potential to alter splicing in archaics and 16 circadian genes likely divergently regulated between present-day humans and archaic hominins.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trusty-ol-hubble-space-telescope-is-working-again-after-nasa-fixes-problem-669663">Trusty ol' Hubble Space Telescope is working again after NASA fixes problem</a>&nbsp;

The study said, "These differences suggest the potential for introgression to modify circadian gene expression."&nbsp;

The study has compared associations to the genomes derived from three ancient hominins, which have been previously published by scientists.&nbsp;

The genomes have been derived from a 120,000-year-old Neanderthal, a 72,000-year-old Denisovan found in the mountains of Mongolia, and a 52,000-year-old Neanderthal from modern-day Croatia.&nbsp;

The researchers have found that many introgressed variants with effects on sleep preference. They found that these variants consistently increase "morningness". The study indicated a directional effect on the trait, and it is also consistent with adaptations to high latitudes observed in other animals.&nbsp;

Lead author John A Capra from the University of California at San Francisco, said, "By analysing the bits of Neanderthal DNA that remain in modern human genomes we discovered a striking trend: many of them have effects on the control of circadian genes in modern humans and these effects are predominantly in a consistent direction of increasing propensity to be a morning person."&nbsp;

"This change is consistent with the effects of living at higher latitudes on the circadian clocks of animals and likely enables more rapid alignment of the circadian clock with changing seasonal light patterns," Capra added.&nbsp;

A new study suggests that genetic materials from our Neanderthal ancestors may be responsible for our habit of waking up early. For the results, published in the journal Genome Biology and Evolution on December 14, researchers combined the ancient DNA of Neanderthals, large-scale genetic studies in modern humans, and artificial intelligence for the study.

A new study suggests that genetic materials from our Neanderthal ancestors may be responsible for our habit of waking up early. For the results, published in the journal Genome Biology and Evolution on December 14, researchers combined the ancient DNA of Neanderthals, large-scale genetic studies in modern humans, and artificial intelligence for the study. Experts often study the archaeological evidence of Neanderthals and learn about their life and our history. Scientists have previously established that around 700,000 years ago, our lineages split apart, most likely in Africa. The modern humans largely stayed in Africa and the Neanderthal lineage migrated into Eurasia, where they encountered diverse new environments. They experienced higher latitudes with greater seasonal variation in daylight and temperature — all of it impacted their way of living. The population split in two about 400,000 years ago with hominins spreading west becoming Neanderthals and their cousins to the east becoming a group known as Denisovans. Former studies have found that the two groups lived for hundreds of thousands of years, but about 40,000 years ago, they disappeared from the fossil record. By then, modern humans had expanded out of Africa, sometimes even interbreeding with Neanderthals and Denisovans. And the fragments of their DNA can be found in most living humans even today. Also read: Evolution for lust? Male sea snakes have big eyes to ogle at opposite sex Now, a team of researchers at Vanderbilt University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of California San Francisco studied genetic data from a catalogue of hundreds of thousands of people in the United Kingdom. For the study, they performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to look for traits linked to the habit of waking up early in the morning. Notably, the process of GWAS helps scientists to identify genes associated with a particular disease, or another trait. Earlier, the experts have noted that this particular method studies the entire set of DNA of a large group of people, searching for small variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs. The researchers have inferred differences in circadian gene sequences, splicing, and regulation between archaic hominins and modern humans. They identified 28 circadian genes containing variants with the potential to alter splicing in archaics and 16 circadian genes likely divergently regulated between present-day humans and archaic hominins. Also read: Trusty ol' Hubble Space Telescope is working again after NASA fixes problem The study said, "These differences suggest the potential for introgression to modify circadian gene expression." The study has compared associations to the genomes derived from three ancient hominins, which have been previously published by scientists. The genomes have been derived from a 120,000-year-old Neanderthal, a 72,000-year-old Denisovan found in the mountains of Mongolia, and a 52,000-year-old Neanderthal from modern-day Croatia. The researchers have found that many introgressed variants with effects on sleep preference. They found that these variants consistently increase "morningness". The study indicated a directional effect on the trait, and it is also consistent with adaptations to high latitudes observed in other animals. Lead author John A Capra from the University of California at San Francisco, said, "By analysing the bits of Neanderthal DNA that remain in modern human genomes we discovered a striking trend: many of them have effects on the control of circadian genes in modern humans and these effects are predominantly in a consistent direction of increasing propensity to be a morning person." "This change is consistent with the effects of living at higher latitudes on the circadian clocks of animals and likely enables more rapid alignment of the circadian clock with changing seasonal light patterns," Capra added.

Early to bed, early to rise might mean you are part Neanderthal

The mystery surrounding the two "non-human" mummies&nbsp;discovered in Peru deepened after an analyst said that 30 per cent of its DNA when analysed did not match humans but an "unknown species". 
 
UFO enthusiast Jose Jaime Maussan, who was part of the team of scientists who performed a DNA analysis of the remains, said that they discovered 30 per cent of its genetic material is “not from any known species”. 
 
Mexican researchers, who stood beside him as he testified before the Congress, also said that the figures were “authentic”, and comprised of only a single skeleton, as reported by UK’s Daily Star. 
 
Although there was no clarity regarding what the 70 per cent of the DNA of the tiny alien corpses matched up with, Maussan said that the DNA analysis has now confirmed the mummified species are “definitely not human.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-congress-deems-three-fingered-mummies-real-but-refrains-from-confirming-alien-origins-656555">Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins</a>

“This is the first time extraterrestrial life has been presented in this manner,” he said, as reported by the Daily Star. 
 
“We have a clear example of non-human specimens unrelated to any known specimens on our planet. These specimens do not belong to our terrestrial evolution. They were not creatures discovered by a UFO crash. Instead, they were found in diatom mines and later transformed into fossilized mummies,” he added. 
 
Maussan further said that “the public has the right to know about non-human technology and beings.” 
 
“This reality unites humanity rather than dividing us. We are not alone in this universe; we should embrace this truth,” he added.

<h2>Aliens don't have lungs, ribs: alien experts</h2>

Earlier, the alien enthusiast had presented photographs and X-rays at the lower chamber of the Mexican Congress which he and Dr Daniel Mendoza claimed proved that the specimens did not have any lungs or ribs. 
 
“They’re real,” said anthropologist Roger Zuniga of San Luis Gonzaga National University in Ica, Peru, while speaking about the specimens in his testimony.

Watch:&nbsp;Are Peruvian Alien Mummies Real or a Clever Hoax? Expert Weighs In!

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“There was absolutely no human intervention in the physical and biological formation of these beings,” he added, further stating that he was not aware of the origin of the creatures. 
 
However, many have expressed scepticism over the origins of the mummified figures because of their uncanny resemblance to Steven Spielberg’s science fiction film “ET”. 
 
Taking to social media, entrepreneur Nikos Drandakis said, “So the Mexicans discovered a 1,000-year-old mummy which supposedly is an alien.” 
 
“And this alien happens to: 1: look exactly like [Steven] Spielberg’s ET,” he said, adding that the corpses also had “a human-looking body – one head, two hands, two legs. A very hard pill to swallow.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The mystery surrounding the two "non-human" mummies discovered in Peru deepened after an analyst said that 30 per cent of its DNA when analysed did not match humans but an "unknown species".

The mystery surrounding the two "non-human" mummies discovered in Peru deepened after an analyst said that 30 per cent of its DNA when analysed did not match humans but an "unknown species". UFO enthusiast Jose Jaime Maussan, who was part of the team of scientists who performed a DNA analysis of the remains, said that they discovered 30 per cent of its genetic material is “not from any known species”. Mexican researchers, who stood beside him as he testified before the Congress, also said that the figures were “authentic”, and comprised of only a single skeleton, as reported by UK’s Daily Star. Although there was no clarity regarding what the 70 per cent of the DNA of the tiny alien corpses matched up with, Maussan said that the DNA analysis has now confirmed the mummified species are “definitely not human.” Also read: Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins “This is the first time extraterrestrial life has been presented in this manner,” he said, as reported by the Daily Star. “We have a clear example of non-human specimens unrelated to any known specimens on our planet. These specimens do not belong to our terrestrial evolution. They were not creatures discovered by a UFO crash. Instead, they were found in diatom mines and later transformed into fossilized mummies,” he added. Maussan further said that “the public has the right to know about non-human technology and beings.” “This reality unites humanity rather than dividing us. We are not alone in this universe; we should embrace this truth,” he added. Aliens don't have lungs, ribs: alien experts Earlier, the alien enthusiast had presented photographs and X-rays at the lower chamber of the Mexican Congress which he and Dr Daniel Mendoza claimed proved that the specimens did not have any lungs or ribs. “They’re real,” said anthropologist Roger Zuniga of San Luis Gonzaga National University in Ica, Peru, while speaking about the specimens in his testimony. Watch: Are Peruvian Alien Mummies Real or a Clever Hoax? Expert Weighs In! “There was absolutely no human intervention in the physical and biological formation of these beings,” he added, further stating that he was not aware of the origin of the creatures. However, many have expressed scepticism over the origins of the mummified figures because of their uncanny resemblance to Steven Spielberg’s science fiction film “ET”. Taking to social media, entrepreneur Nikos Drandakis said, “So the Mexicans discovered a 1,000-year-old mummy which supposedly is an alien.” “And this alien happens to: 1: look exactly like [Steven] Spielberg’s ET,” he said, adding that the corpses also had “a human-looking body – one head, two hands, two legs. A very hard pill to swallow.” (With inputs from agencies)

DNA of Mexico's 'alien' corpses matches not with humans but unknown species: Analyst

Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo. 
 
86-year-old Ken Ohm, while speaking to the New York Times, had said that there are endless possibilities of his bizarre death. 
 
He pointed out that his contribution can eventually play an important role in an intergalactic zoo where he hopes that his replica has been caged as a human specimen. 
 
“I’m living with the uncertainty,” stated Ohm. Ohm also has the chance of having a thousand versions of himself cloned, similar to the Republic Army from “Star Wars”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-worlds-astronomers-discover-two-new-hot-jupiters-heres-all-about-these-exoplanets-662475">Alien worlds: Astronomers discover two new 'hot Jupiters'. Here's all about these exoplanets</a>

Ohm, who was a former baseball player and javelin thrower, had wished to become a NASA astronaut during the heyday of the Apollo programme in the 1960s. He said that he was rejected because of his height. 
 
“I did everything I was supposed to, except shrink,” Ohm lamented. 
 
As per the man, even if the results are not as expected, the thought that the generations ahead can now look at the moon and think that “Old Ken has his DNA up there” is enough to inspire him to do that.

<h2>Sending Earthling remains at affordable rates</h2>

Ohm, who has been a teacher for 50 years and has written several books related to the moon and Midwestern life, will be sending his DNA into space with the help of Celestis, which specialises in transferring Earthling remains and ashes to space on a rocket flight at “surprisingly affordable” rates which began at $2,495. 
 
A trip to deep space or the lunar surface costs around $13,000, which is slightly above the average funeral cost of about $10,000 in New York. Ohm is not the only one who wants to send his DNA into space.

Watch:&nbsp;Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre to mark 60th anniversary of first rocket launch from Thumba

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Civilians, astronauts, and professional baseball players have made a commitment to an orbital end with Celestis. Celestis was set up in 1994 and has launched 17 “memorial” spaceflights since then. 
 
The next lunar flight of the company leaves from Cape Canaveral on Christmas Eve and will be landing on the northeastern end of the moon with remains and DNA. 
 
FDNY Battalion Chief Daniel Conlisk after his death wishes to send his remains into space along with those belonging to his wife Kathy, who died last year. 
 
It was her wish to have “our ashes mixed together and sent into space,” explained 76-year-old Conlisk.

(With inputs from agencies)

Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo.

Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo. 86-year-old Ken Ohm, while speaking to the New York Times, had said that there are endless possibilities of his bizarre death. He pointed out that his contribution can eventually play an important role in an intergalactic zoo where he hopes that his replica has been caged as a human specimen. “I’m living with the uncertainty,” stated Ohm. Ohm also has the chance of having a thousand versions of himself cloned, similar to the Republic Army from “Star Wars”. Also read: Alien worlds: Astronomers discover two new 'hot Jupiters'. Here's all about these exoplanets Ohm, who was a former baseball player and javelin thrower, had wished to become a NASA astronaut during the heyday of the Apollo programme in the 1960s. He said that he was rejected because of his height. “I did everything I was supposed to, except shrink,” Ohm lamented. As per the man, even if the results are not as expected, the thought that the generations ahead can now look at the moon and think that “Old Ken has his DNA up there” is enough to inspire him to do that. Sending Earthling remains at affordable rates Ohm, who has been a teacher for 50 years and has written several books related to the moon and Midwestern life, will be sending his DNA into space with the help of Celestis, which specialises in transferring Earthling remains and ashes to space on a rocket flight at “surprisingly affordable” rates which began at $2,495. A trip to deep space or the lunar surface costs around $13,000, which is slightly above the average funeral cost of about $10,000 in New York. Ohm is not the only one who wants to send his DNA into space. Watch: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre to mark 60th anniversary of first rocket launch from Thumba Civilians, astronauts, and professional baseball players have made a commitment to an orbital end with Celestis. Celestis was set up in 1994 and has launched 17 “memorial” spaceflights since then. The next lunar flight of the company leaves from Cape Canaveral on Christmas Eve and will be landing on the northeastern end of the moon with remains and DNA. FDNY Battalion Chief Daniel Conlisk after his death wishes to send his remains into space along with those belonging to his wife Kathy, who died last year. It was her wish to have “our ashes mixed together and sent into space,” explained 76-year-old Conlisk. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Man to send DNA to moon after death to get his clone created in space

Researchers on Thursday (Sep 28) said that they have discovered remnants of DNA in fossilised remains of a sea turtle, which dates back to 6 million years ago and is closely related to Kemp's ridley and olive ridley turtles of today. 
 
This is a rare occurrence of genetic material getting identified in such old fossils of a vertebrate. The researchers stated that some bone cells, known as osteocytes, were preserved exquisitely in the fossil, which was excavated along the Caribbean coast of Panama in 2015. 
 
The fossil is partial and has a relatively complete carapace, the shell of a turtle. However, the rest of the skeleton is missing. The researchers estimated that the turtle would have been around a foot (30 cm) long, when alive. 
 
Palaeontologist Edwin Cadena, the lead author of the study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, said that in a few osteocytes, the cell nuclei remained preserved and reacted to a chemical solution which helped the researchers recognise the presence of remnants of DNA.

DNA contains genetic information for the development and functioning of an organism.

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"I want to point out that we did not extract DNA, we only were able to recognise the presence of DNA traces in the nuclei," stated Cadena, of Universidad del Rosario in Bogota and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. 
 
DNA generally perishes although it has remained preserved in some ancient remains which were kept in the right conditions. Last year, the researchers reported the DNA discovery from plants and microbes, which dated back to about 2 million years ago, from sediment at the remote northernmost point in Greenland. 
 
Cadena stated that the only older vertebrate fossils, apart from the one of turtle to have been found with similar DNA remnants, were of two dinosaurs - Brachylophosaurus, which lived about 78 million years ago, and Tyrannosaurus, which lived about 66 million years ago.

<h2>DNA remnants also found in insects</h2>

Cadena stated that DNA remnants were also reported in insects which dated back to tens of millions of years ago.

The turtle belongs to the same genus, Lepidochelys, as two of the seven living species of sea turtles in the world - the olive ridley and the world's smallest sea turtle - the Kemp's ridley, said Cadena.

WATCH |&nbsp;Baby turtles released on Nicaraguan beach

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Kemp's ridley, which has a slightly hooked beak and a triangular-shaped head, is primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico. The olive ridley, which looks like Kemp's ridley, has a larger distribution and is generally found in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. 
 
"Each fossil site has specific conditions of preservation that in some cases could have favoured preservation of original biomolecular remains such as proteins and DNA," Cadena stated. 
 
"Maybe in the future and with more studies of this kind, we could be able at some point to sequence very small pieces of DNA and to infer things about their close relatives or involve that information in a broader molecular evolutionary study," added Cadena.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Researchers on Thursday (Sep 28) said that they have discovered remnants of DNA in fossilised remains of a sea turtle, which dates back to 6 million years ago and is closely related to Kemp's ridley and olive ridley turtles of today.

Researchers on Thursday (Sep 28) said that they have discovered remnants of DNA in fossilised remains of a sea turtle, which dates back to 6 million years ago and is closely related to Kemp's ridley and olive ridley turtles of today. This is a rare occurrence of genetic material getting identified in such old fossils of a vertebrate. The researchers stated that some bone cells, known as osteocytes, were preserved exquisitely in the fossil, which was excavated along the Caribbean coast of Panama in 2015. The fossil is partial and has a relatively complete carapace, the shell of a turtle. However, the rest of the skeleton is missing. The researchers estimated that the turtle would have been around a foot (30 cm) long, when alive. Palaeontologist Edwin Cadena, the lead author of the study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, said that in a few osteocytes, the cell nuclei remained preserved and reacted to a chemical solution which helped the researchers recognise the presence of remnants of DNA. DNA contains genetic information for the development and functioning of an organism. ALSO READ | Alabama hospital's first animal patient, a sea turtle, gets CT scan; Images go viral "I want to point out that we did not extract DNA, we only were able to recognise the presence of DNA traces in the nuclei," stated Cadena, of Universidad del Rosario in Bogota and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. DNA generally perishes although it has remained preserved in some ancient remains which were kept in the right conditions. Last year, the researchers reported the DNA discovery from plants and microbes, which dated back to about 2 million years ago, from sediment at the remote northernmost point in Greenland. Cadena stated that the only older vertebrate fossils, apart from the one of turtle to have been found with similar DNA remnants, were of two dinosaurs - Brachylophosaurus, which lived about 78 million years ago, and Tyrannosaurus, which lived about 66 million years ago. DNA remnants also found in insects Cadena stated that DNA remnants were also reported in insects which dated back to tens of millions of years ago. The turtle belongs to the same genus, Lepidochelys, as two of the seven living species of sea turtles in the world - the olive ridley and the world's smallest sea turtle - the Kemp's ridley, said Cadena. WATCH | Baby turtles released on Nicaraguan beach Kemp's ridley, which has a slightly hooked beak and a triangular-shaped head, is primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico. The olive ridley, which looks like Kemp's ridley, has a larger distribution and is generally found in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. "Each fossil site has specific conditions of preservation that in some cases could have favoured preservation of original biomolecular remains such as proteins and DNA," Cadena stated. "Maybe in the future and with more studies of this kind, we could be able at some point to sequence very small pieces of DNA and to infer things about their close relatives or involve that information in a broader molecular evolutionary study," added Cadena. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Researchers find DNA remains in 6 million-year-old turtle's fossil

In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital.&nbsp;

It was a refined portable laboratory that could detect coronavirus infections from tiny genetic elements that the deadly virus leaves behind, as per the latest report by the Washington Post.

The Serbians then soon found out that this was one of the capabilities of the Fire-Eye.

The Washington Post, citing the Chinese inventors of the portable lab, said that not only did it crack the genetic code for viruses but also for humans, with machines that can interpret genetic instructions retained within the cells of every person on this planet.

In late 2021, with the COVID pandemic still seething, Serbian officials made an announcement saying that they would work together with a Chinese firm to transform the lab into a permanent facility with strategies to gather and curate the entire genomes, or genetics blueprints, of Serbian citizens.

Serbia’s Prime Minister&nbsp;Ana Brnabic&nbsp;had appreciated China, saying that the country had given Belgrade the “most advanced institute for precision medicine and genetics in the region.”&nbsp;

However, China’s Fire-Eye labs is now attracting the attention of Western intelligence agencies in the midst of rising concern about China’s intentions.

As per the report, some analysts say that behind China’s act of philanthropy, was its hidden agenda to tap into new origins of highly valuable human DNA data in countries around the globe.

According to the US and Western intelligence officials, China's collection effort, which has been underway for more than a decade now had included the acquisition of US genetics companies and also refined hacking operations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-origin-girl-receives-first-rejection-free-kidney-from-mother-in-uk-638649">Indian-origin girl receives first rejection-free kidney from mother in UK</a>

However, the COVID pandemic gave it the required boost and created opportunities for Chinese companies and institutes to disseminate gene-sequencing machines and create partnerships for genetic research in places where Beijing formerly had very little to no access, said the officials.

Amid the COVID pandemic, Fire-Eye labs would grow rapidly, spreading to four continents and more than 20 countries, from Canada and Latvia to Saudi Arabia, and from Ethiopia and South Africa to Australia. Several, like the one in Belgrade, now function as permanent genetic testing centres.

“Covid-19,” said one senior U.S. intelligence analyst who closely tracks China’s biotechnology sector, “was the door.”

A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rebuffed suggestions that the Chinese companies had inappropriately gained access to genetic data.&nbsp;

The spokesman, Liu Pengyu, said the Fire-Eye labs helped many countries combat a hazardous pandemic and persist in playing a crucial role in screening for cancer and other diseases.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital.

In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital. It was a refined portable laboratory that could detect coronavirus infections from tiny genetic elements that the deadly virus leaves behind, as per the latest report by the Washington Post. The Serbians then soon found out that this was one of the capabilities of the Fire-Eye. The Washington Post, citing the Chinese inventors of the portable lab, said that not only did it crack the genetic code for viruses but also for humans, with machines that can interpret genetic instructions retained within the cells of every person on this planet. In late 2021, with the COVID pandemic still seething, Serbian officials made an announcement saying that they would work together with a Chinese firm to transform the lab into a permanent facility with strategies to gather and curate the entire genomes, or genetics blueprints, of Serbian citizens. Serbia’s Prime Minister Ana Brnabic had appreciated China, saying that the country had given Belgrade the “most advanced institute for precision medicine and genetics in the region.” However, China’s Fire-Eye labs is now attracting the attention of Western intelligence agencies in the midst of rising concern about China’s intentions. As per the report, some analysts say that behind China’s act of philanthropy, was its hidden agenda to tap into new origins of highly valuable human DNA data in countries around the globe. According to the US and Western intelligence officials, China's collection effort, which has been underway for more than a decade now had included the acquisition of US genetics companies and also refined hacking operations. Also read: Indian-origin girl receives first rejection-free kidney from mother in UK However, the COVID pandemic gave it the required boost and created opportunities for Chinese companies and institutes to disseminate gene-sequencing machines and create partnerships for genetic research in places where Beijing formerly had very little to no access, said the officials. Amid the COVID pandemic, Fire-Eye labs would grow rapidly, spreading to four continents and more than 20 countries, from Canada and Latvia to Saudi Arabia, and from Ethiopia and South Africa to Australia. Several, like the one in Belgrade, now function as permanent genetic testing centres. “Covid-19,” said one senior U.S. intelligence analyst who closely tracks China’s biotechnology sector, “was the door.” A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rebuffed suggestions that the Chinese companies had inappropriately gained access to genetic data. The spokesman, Liu Pengyu, said the Fire-Eye labs helped many countries combat a hazardous pandemic and persist in playing a crucial role in screening for cancer and other diseases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China scooped up human DNA from nations around the world, spurring fears of a genetic arms race

The Tasmanian tiger, which had gone extinct almost 100 years ago, may again roam on the face of the Earth as scientists have recovered the RNA sample that can help resurrect the carnivorous animal, officially known as a thylacine.

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a genetic material present in all living cells and has structural similarities to DNA.

Scientists plan to harness the advances in genetics, ancient DNA retrieval and artificial reproduction to bring back the extinct animal.

They&nbsp;recovered the RNA from the desiccated skin and muscle of a Tasmanian tiger stored since 1891 at a museum in Sweden.&nbsp;

“We would strongly advocate that first and foremost we need to protect our biodiversity from further extinctions, but unfortunately we are not seeing a slowing down in species loss,” said Andrew Pask, a professor at the University of Melbourne and head of its Thylacine Integrated Genetic Restoration Research Lab, who is leading the initiative, reports CNN.

“This technology offers a chance to correct this and could be applied in exceptional circumstances where cornerstone species have been lost,” he added.

The initiative is being undertaken through collaboration with Texas-based Colossal Biosciences, founded by tech entrepreneur Ben Lamm and Harvard Medical School geneticist George Church.

Both have spent nearly $15 million to bring back the woolly mammoth in an altered form.

The Tasmanian tiger, which is about the size of a coyote, disappeared around 2,000 years ago everywhere except the Australian island of Tasmania.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/when-was-the-universes-first-continent-formed-scientist-offers-clues-637742">When was the universe's first continent formed? Scientist offers clues</a>

As the only marsupial apex predator that lived in modern times, it played a key role in its ecosystem, but that also made it unpopular with humans.

The shy and semi-nocturnal Tasmanian tigers were hunted by the European settlers in Australia in the 1800s who blamed them for livestock losses.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/alien-corpses-unveiled-in-mexico-might-be-real-after-all-lab-tests-say-637726">Alien corpses unveiled in Mexico might be real after all, lab tests say</a>

However, there has been no proof to attribute the losses of livestock to the Tasmanian tigers.

The&nbsp;last thylacine living in captivity,&nbsp;named Benjamin, died from exposure in 1936 at the Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart, Tasmania. This monumental loss&nbsp;occurred shortly after thylacines were granted protected status, but it was too late to save the species.

Aside from the tiger-like stripes on its back, the Tasmanian tiger resembled a wolf. The arrival of people in Australia roughly 50,000 years ago ushered in massive population losses.&nbsp;

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The Tasmanian tiger, which had gone extinct almost 100 years ago, may again roam on the face of the Earth as scientists have recovered the RNA sample that can help resurrect the carnivorous animal, officially known as a thylacine.

The Tasmanian tiger, which had gone extinct almost 100 years ago, may again roam on the face of the Earth as scientists have recovered the RNA sample that can help resurrect the carnivorous animal, officially known as a thylacine. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a genetic material present in all living cells and has structural similarities to DNA. Scientists plan to harness the advances in genetics, ancient DNA retrieval and artificial reproduction to bring back the extinct animal. They recovered the RNA from the desiccated skin and muscle of a Tasmanian tiger stored since 1891 at a museum in Sweden. “We would strongly advocate that first and foremost we need to protect our biodiversity from further extinctions, but unfortunately we are not seeing a slowing down in species loss,” said Andrew Pask, a professor at the University of Melbourne and head of its Thylacine Integrated Genetic Restoration Research Lab, who is leading the initiative, reports CNN. “This technology offers a chance to correct this and could be applied in exceptional circumstances where cornerstone species have been lost,” he added. The initiative is being undertaken through collaboration with Texas-based Colossal Biosciences, founded by tech entrepreneur Ben Lamm and Harvard Medical School geneticist George Church. Both have spent nearly $15 million to bring back the woolly mammoth in an altered form. The Tasmanian tiger, which is about the size of a coyote, disappeared around 2,000 years ago everywhere except the Australian island of Tasmania. Also read | When was the universe's first continent formed? Scientist offers clues As the only marsupial apex predator that lived in modern times, it played a key role in its ecosystem, but that also made it unpopular with humans. The shy and semi-nocturnal Tasmanian tigers were hunted by the European settlers in Australia in the 1800s who blamed them for livestock losses. Also read | Alien corpses unveiled in Mexico might be real after all, lab tests say However, there has been no proof to attribute the losses of livestock to the Tasmanian tigers. The last thylacine living in captivity, named Benjamin, died from exposure in 1936 at the Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart, Tasmania. This monumental loss occurred shortly after thylacines were granted protected status, but it was too late to save the species. Aside from the tiger-like stripes on its back, the Tasmanian tiger resembled a wolf. The arrival of people in Australia roughly 50,000 years ago ushered in massive population losses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists one step closer to resurrecting Tasmanian tiger that went extinct 100 years ago

Latest research on "Ötzi," the Neolithic Iceman has revealed something unexpected about his genetic heritage. Ötzi has undergone extensive studies in the past. The latest study involved creation of a high-coverage genome.

The report on the latest research has been published in the journal Cell Genomics, reported AFP. In the report, scientists have shown that Ötzi had characteristics that were different than&nbsp;his earlier depictions. The analysis has notably uncovered that Ötzi had a dark skin, dark eyes and even a receding hairline.

"We could confirm some things like he had brown eyes, but we found out that the skin colour is much darker, than we thought," Albert Zink of Eurac Research, Institute for Mummy Studies in Bolzano, Italy, told Reuters.

"We found out that he was most likely bald, so he had that genetic predisposition to lose his hair."

Previous research&nbsp;had shown a genetic affinity between Ötzi and modern Sardinians. But researchers now believe that the previous conclusions were drawn before a broader spectrum of human genomes was available.

"The main difference was regarding his ancestry, because we could on one hand confirm that he had this typical Anatolian ancestry that is typical for the Neolithic people that came from Anatolia and migrated to Europe at the time," Zink added.

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The latest study has shown that over 92 per cent of Ötzi's genetic makeup originates from early Anatolian farmers. This puts a new light on migratory history of Europeans.

The findings of the report also points at the Alpine region serving as a genetic barrier that limited genetic exchange between the Iceman's populations and other communities which were situated north and west of the Alps.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/form-of-gene-therapy-may-offer-one-off-treatment-for-severe-alcohol-addiction-finds-study-625858">Form of gene therapy may offer ‘one-off’ treatment for severe alcohol addiction, finds study</a>

Regarded as one of the most exceptionally preserved ice mummies, Ötzi was found by hikers in the Tyrolean Alps in 1991. Standing 160 centimetres tall (approx. 5 feet 2 inches), Ötzi was about 45 years old when he met his death from an arrow shot by an unknown assailant about 5,300 years ago.

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Latest research on "Ötzi," the Neolithic Iceman has revealed something unexpected about his genetic heritage. Ötzi has undergone extensive studies in the past. The latest study involved creation of a high-coverage genome.

Latest research on "Ötzi," the Neolithic Iceman has revealed something unexpected about his genetic heritage. Ötzi has undergone extensive studies in the past. The latest study involved creation of a high-coverage genome. The report on the latest research has been published in the journal Cell Genomics, reported AFP. In the report, scientists have shown that Ötzi had characteristics that were different than his earlier depictions. The analysis has notably uncovered that Ötzi had a dark skin, dark eyes and even a receding hairline. "We could confirm some things like he had brown eyes, but we found out that the skin colour is much darker, than we thought," Albert Zink of Eurac Research, Institute for Mummy Studies in Bolzano, Italy, told Reuters. "We found out that he was most likely bald, so he had that genetic predisposition to lose his hair." Previous research had shown a genetic affinity between Ötzi and modern Sardinians. But researchers now believe that the previous conclusions were drawn before a broader spectrum of human genomes was available. "The main difference was regarding his ancestry, because we could on one hand confirm that he had this typical Anatolian ancestry that is typical for the Neolithic people that came from Anatolia and migrated to Europe at the time," Zink added. Watch | Are robots making a world a better place × The latest study has shown that over 92 per cent of Ötzi's genetic makeup originates from early Anatolian farmers. This puts a new light on migratory history of Europeans. The findings of the report also points at the Alpine region serving as a genetic barrier that limited genetic exchange between the Iceman's populations and other communities which were situated north and west of the Alps. Also Read | Form of gene therapy may offer ‘one-off’ treatment for severe alcohol addiction, finds study Regarded as one of the most exceptionally preserved ice mummies, Ötzi was found by hikers in the Tyrolean Alps in 1991. Standing 160 centimetres tall (approx. 5 feet 2 inches), Ötzi was about 45 years old when he met his death from an arrow shot by an unknown assailant about 5,300 years ago. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

DNA analysis reveals 'Ötzi' the Iceman looked quite different than we thought

Technology has penetrated every aspect of our lives. There are plenty of wearable gadgets available in the market that measure the steps we take, our heart rate, blood pressure and whatnot. This data proves useful for us in maintaining our health by keeping a watch.&nbsp;

But these wearables aren't yet advanced enough to actively affect our metabolism or to help us manage some of our illnesses. But now the trend may change as an experiment on ETH Zurich has revealed that we can harness electricity to influence our DNA!

"Wearable electronic devices are playing a rapidly expanding role in the acquisition of individuals' health data for personalized medical interventions," the researchers write in their published paper. The paper has been published in journal Nature Metabolism, as reported by Sciencealert.

"However, wearables cannot yet directly programme gene-based therapies because of the lack of a direct electrogenetic interface. Here we provide the missing link."

<h2>How this helps</h2>

Let's take an example of a person with diabetes. If the technique is used to boost production of insulin in the body, it is bound to help the patient.

For this particular study, human pancreatic cells were implanted into mice with type 1 diabetes. These cells were then stimulated using direct current though acupuncture needles.

The tech is being called DART (DC-Actuated Regulation Technology). The researchers have said that the technology brings digital tech of gadgets and analog tech or our bodies together.

The electricity gives rise to non-toxic levels of reactive oxygen species. These are energetic molecules which, after proper management, can kick off a process that leads to activation of cells which are engineered to respond to changes in chemistry.

This essentially, the research says, is changing how DNA inside the cell is regulated by tinkering with their epigenetic 'on/off switch'. This can help in variety of conditions affected by genetics.

So are we close to buying a Fitbit band that'll transform us by effecting changes at the genetic level? Well it might be too early to say that, but the experiment has surely taken the first step&nbsp;towards such a future.

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Technology has penetrated every aspect of our lives. There are plenty of wearable gadgets available in the market that measure the steps we take, our heart rate, blood pressure and whatnot.

Technology has penetrated every aspect of our lives. There are plenty of wearable gadgets available in the market that measure the steps we take, our heart rate, blood pressure and whatnot. This data proves useful for us in maintaining our health by keeping a watch. But these wearables aren't yet advanced enough to actively affect our metabolism or to help us manage some of our illnesses. But now the trend may change as an experiment on ETH Zurich has revealed that we can harness electricity to influence our DNA! "Wearable electronic devices are playing a rapidly expanding role in the acquisition of individuals' health data for personalized medical interventions," the researchers write in their published paper. The paper has been published in journal Nature Metabolism, as reported by Sciencealert. "However, wearables cannot yet directly programme gene-based therapies because of the lack of a direct electrogenetic interface. Here we provide the missing link." How this helps Let's take an example of a person with diabetes. If the technique is used to boost production of insulin in the body, it is bound to help the patient. For this particular study, human pancreatic cells were implanted into mice with type 1 diabetes. These cells were then stimulated using direct current though acupuncture needles. The tech is being called DART (DC-Actuated Regulation Technology). The researchers have said that the technology brings digital tech of gadgets and analog tech or our bodies together. The electricity gives rise to non-toxic levels of reactive oxygen species. These are energetic molecules which, after proper management, can kick off a process that leads to activation of cells which are engineered to respond to changes in chemistry. This essentially, the research says, is changing how DNA inside the cell is regulated by tinkering with their epigenetic 'on/off switch'. This can help in variety of conditions affected by genetics. So are we close to buying a Fitbit band that'll transform us by effecting changes at the genetic level? Well it might be too early to say that, but the experiment has surely taken the first step towards such a future. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Human genes can be controlled with electricity, experiment reveals

The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. &nbsp;

The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory. The move will now make it easier for the street cleaners to identify the owners by taking samples from poop droppings they find in the centre of the town.

The ones responsible for failing to pick up their pet's poop will be forced to pay a fine of 120 euros ($135) for cleaning the mess.

"I'm outraged that some people never clean up after their animals," Mayor Robert Menard told local radio France Bleu at the weekend. "We did a count: the town picked up 1,000 (dog turds) just in the centre. That's not right."

"We thought that if we put police officers on the street it would have an effect, but when there's a police officer, people clean up. It's when there's no one around that they don't crouch down and do their civic duty," he added.

As per news agency AFP reports, Menard has been seeking to introduce dog DNA testing since the year 2016, but previously, his efforts were rejected by the state on legal grounds.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gigi-hadid-arrested-at-cayman-island-for-possession-of-cannabis-pleads-guilty-at-court-617250">Gigi Hadid arrested in Cayman Islands for possession of cannabis, pleads guilty at court</a>

The new rules have been introduced for the next two years on an experimental basis.&nbsp;

Now the dog owners in the centre of Beziers will have to prove if they have gotten the DNA test done, with police authorised to issue 38-euro fines to anyone failing to produce an identity document.

However, the 120-euro cleaning up fees will not be enforced for three months, with Menard promising that there will be a soft launch.

"People who don't clean up after their dogs couldn't give a damn about anyone," Menard added. "Sometimes I hear people say, 'It's up to municipal workers to clean up after my dog.' They'll see now. It's going to cost 120 euros."&nbsp;

DNA testing for dogs has been previously introduced in cities like Tel Aviv in Israel, Valencia in Spain and some areas of London.&nbsp;

Landlords in some private residential compounds in Florida have also introduced rules that require residents to provide DNA samples of their animals to identify pavement foulers.

The mayor's office in Beziers said cleaning up dog faeces cost the municipality of 75,000 people around 80,000 euros per year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory.

The dog owners in a southern French town will now have to get the DNA of their pets tested under new rules to tackle the scourge of poop-strewn pavements. The mayor of Beziers introduced the tests and made them compulsory. The move will now make it easier for the street cleaners to identify the owners by taking samples from poop droppings they find in the centre of the town. The ones responsible for failing to pick up their pet's poop will be forced to pay a fine of 120 euros ($135) for cleaning the mess. "I'm outraged that some people never clean up after their animals," Mayor Robert Menard told local radio France Bleu at the weekend. "We did a count: the town picked up 1,000 (dog turds) just in the centre. That's not right." "We thought that if we put police officers on the street it would have an effect, but when there's a police officer, people clean up. It's when there's no one around that they don't crouch down and do their civic duty," he added. As per news agency AFP reports, Menard has been seeking to introduce dog DNA testing since the year 2016, but previously, his efforts were rejected by the state on legal grounds. Also read: Gigi Hadid arrested in Cayman Islands for possession of cannabis, pleads guilty at court The new rules have been introduced for the next two years on an experimental basis. Now the dog owners in the centre of Beziers will have to prove if they have gotten the DNA test done, with police authorised to issue 38-euro fines to anyone failing to produce an identity document. However, the 120-euro cleaning up fees will not be enforced for three months, with Menard promising that there will be a soft launch. "People who don't clean up after their dogs couldn't give a damn about anyone," Menard added. "Sometimes I hear people say, 'It's up to municipal workers to clean up after my dog.' They'll see now. It's going to cost 120 euros." DNA testing for dogs has been previously introduced in cities like Tel Aviv in Israel, Valencia in Spain and some areas of London. Landlords in some private residential compounds in Florida have also introduced rules that require residents to provide DNA samples of their animals to identify pavement foulers. The mayor's office in Beziers said cleaning up dog faeces cost the municipality of 75,000 people around 80,000 euros per year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poop patrol: French town orders mandatory DNA testing for dogs, plans fines for mess

In a groundbreaking development for marine research, scientists have developed an autonomous underwater robot fish. Also known as belle, the robot fish can film underwater and collect DNA samples that provide a picture of which organisms live in a given environment.

A robot fish that collects environmental DNA

What makes us human? Primate genome study offers some clues

Scientists have broadly agreed that our species, Homo sapiens, originated in Africa and that modern humans also arose from one place on that continent in time. However, the findings published in the journal Nature, on Wednesday (May 17), say otherwise. The study finds that only humans lived in different regions of Africa but also migrated from one region to another.&nbsp;

A study led by McGill University in Canada and the University of California-Davis in the United States, suggests that modern humans descended from two populations that coexisted in Africa for a million years before merging in several independent groups&nbsp;across the continent.&nbsp; 
 
It was this migration and DNA mixing with one another over a period of hundreds of thousands of years that made modern humans, finds the study, which now counters some of the dominant theories about human origins in Africa.

Previous research 
 
“At different times, people who embraced the classic model of a single origin for Homo sapiens suggested that humans first emerged in either East or Southern Africa,” said co-lead author on the research and population geneticist in the Department of Anthropology at the University of California, Davis, Brenna Henn.

Over the years, paleoanthropologists and geneticists have found evidence that points to Africa as the origin of our species as some of the oldest fossils which may have belonged to modern humans have been unearthed there.&nbsp;

Additionally, “limited fossil and archaeological records of human occupation from sites as far afield as Morocco, Ethiopia, and South Africa show that Homo sapiens were to be found living across the continent as far back as at least 300,000 years ago,” said Henn.&nbsp;

What did Henn and her team find?

The research team analysed the genomes of 290 living people from four geographically and genetically diverse African groups. The systemic test was done in order to trace the similarities and differences between the populations over the past million years and gain insight into the genetic interconnections and human evolution across the continent.&nbsp;

Henn and her colleagues also developed software to run large-scale simulations of human history. They also created multiple scenarios of different populations existing in Africa over different periods of time to observe which one could have produced the diversity of DNA found in people alive today.

They studied the DNA from a range of African groups like Nama (Khoe-San) a group of hunter-gatherers from South Africa, the Mende who are farmers living in Sierra Leone, the Gumuz who are recent descendants of a hunter-gatherer group from Ethiopia; and the Amhara and Oromo (agriculturalists from eastern Africa).&nbsp;

Notably, living Africans have a vast amount of genetic diversity compared with other people since humans had lived and evolved there for hundreds of thousands of years with a relatively small gene pool before they began expanding to other continents.&nbsp;

“We used a new algorithm to rapidly test hundreds of possible scenarios,” said Simon Gravel, co-senior author of the paper and Associate Professor in the Department of Human Genetics at McGill University. He added that the algorithm was initially written to understand the risk of genetic disease and how it varies across populations, “and it led us to this deep dive into human origins.”

The researchers also included some Eurasian genetic material to include traces of colonial incursions and mixing in Africa and also looked at the genome of a 50,000-year-old Neanderthal found in Croatia. According to Henn and her colleagues, the ancestors of our species existed in two distinct populations which, for the purposes of this research, were called Stem1 and Stem2.

The study showed that some 600,000 years ago, a small group of humans with their origins from Stem1 went on to become the Neanderthals. On the other hand, Stem1 endured in Africa for hundreds of thousands of years after that, as did Stem2. The study also found that the two populations were not all that different.&nbsp;

Therefore, the researchers concluded that people moved between Stem1 and Stem2 and paired off to have children and thus mixing their DNA. However, their model does not reveal if Stem1 and Stem2 people lived in Africa but speculated that the groups moved a lot over time.&nbsp;

The researchers also found despite these mergers 120,000 years ago, when humans also supposedly experienced a dramatic shift in African history, as the model indicates, people with solely Stem1 or solely Stem2 ancestry appear to have survived.&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Scientists have broadly agreed that our species, Homo sapiens, originated in Africa and that modern humans also arose from one place on that continent in time. However, the findings published in the journal Nature, on Wednesday (May 17), say otherwise.

Scientists have broadly agreed that our species, Homo sapiens, originated in Africa and that modern humans also arose from one place on that continent in time. However, the findings published in the journal Nature, on Wednesday (May 17), say otherwise. The study finds that only humans lived in different regions of Africa but also migrated from one region to another. A study led by McGill University in Canada and the University of California-Davis in the United States, suggests that modern humans descended from two populations that coexisted in Africa for a million years before merging in several independent groups across the continent. It was this migration and DNA mixing with one another over a period of hundreds of thousands of years that made modern humans, finds the study, which now counters some of the dominant theories about human origins in Africa. Previous research “At different times, people who embraced the classic model of a single origin for Homo sapiens suggested that humans first emerged in either East or Southern Africa,” said co-lead author on the research and population geneticist in the Department of Anthropology at the University of California, Davis, Brenna Henn. Over the years, paleoanthropologists and geneticists have found evidence that points to Africa as the origin of our species as some of the oldest fossils which may have belonged to modern humans have been unearthed there. Additionally, “limited fossil and archaeological records of human occupation from sites as far afield as Morocco, Ethiopia, and South Africa show that Homo sapiens were to be found living across the continent as far back as at least 300,000 years ago,” said Henn. What did Henn and her team find? The research team analysed the genomes of 290 living people from four geographically and genetically diverse African groups. The systemic test was done in order to trace the similarities and differences between the populations over the past million years and gain insight into the genetic interconnections and human evolution across the continent. Henn and her colleagues also developed software to run large-scale simulations of human history. They also created multiple scenarios of different populations existing in Africa over different periods of time to observe which one could have produced the diversity of DNA found in people alive today. They studied the DNA from a range of African groups like Nama (Khoe-San) a group of hunter-gatherers from South Africa, the Mende who are farmers living in Sierra Leone, the Gumuz who are recent descendants of a hunter-gatherer group from Ethiopia; and the Amhara and Oromo (agriculturalists from eastern Africa). Notably, living Africans have a vast amount of genetic diversity compared with other people since humans had lived and evolved there for hundreds of thousands of years with a relatively small gene pool before they began expanding to other continents. “We used a new algorithm to rapidly test hundreds of possible scenarios,” said Simon Gravel, co-senior author of the paper and Associate Professor in the Department of Human Genetics at McGill University. He added that the algorithm was initially written to understand the risk of genetic disease and how it varies across populations, “and it led us to this deep dive into human origins.” The researchers also included some Eurasian genetic material to include traces of colonial incursions and mixing in Africa and also looked at the genome of a 50,000-year-old Neanderthal found in Croatia. According to Henn and her colleagues, the ancestors of our species existed in two distinct populations which, for the purposes of this research, were called Stem1 and Stem2. The study showed that some 600,000 years ago, a small group of humans with their origins from Stem1 went on to become the Neanderthals. On the other hand, Stem1 endured in Africa for hundreds of thousands of years after that, as did Stem2. The study also found that the two populations were not all that different. Therefore, the researchers concluded that people moved between Stem1 and Stem2 and paired off to have children and thus mixing their DNA. However, their model does not reveal if Stem1 and Stem2 people lived in Africa but speculated that the groups moved a lot over time. The researchers also found despite these mergers 120,000 years ago, when humans also supposedly experienced a dramatic shift in African history, as the model indicates, people with solely Stem1 or solely Stem2 ancestry appear to have survived. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No, all humans didn't come from one place in Africa, claims new study

The first baby was created in the United Kingdom from the DNA of three people using a pioneering IVF procedure. The baby was developed using the process called mitochondrial donation treatment (MDT) in which the nucleus is taken from one of the eggs of the mother, which contains her DNA and is implanted into a donor egg. The donor egg's nuclei are removed but its healthy mitochondrial DNA is retained.&nbsp;

The process involves the creation of IVF embryos which are free from harmful mutations that are carried by their mothers and are likely to be passed onto their children. Unlike normal DNA, &nbsp;which contains the genetic information that helps in creating normal humans, mitochondrial DNA contains power for the cell. Researchers have drawn a comparison between the mitochondrial DNA and a battery.

Various scientists insist that the term “three-parent baby” is not accurate because more than 98.8 per cent of the child's DNA still comes from two people.

A green light was given by the UK parliament to the procedure in 2015 and requests for its use were&nbsp;considered by the regulatory body called the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sars-cov-2-virus-can-alter-our-dna-lead-to-long-covid-study-575438">SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study</a>

The first “three-parent child” of Britain was found in a Freedom of Information request made to the HFEA. As per reports, the clinic said that few babies have been born using MDT in the UK.&nbsp;

The details of the babies who have been created using the MDT programme are not released by doctors amid concerns that the confidentiality of the patient can be compromised through specific information. &nbsp;

The HFEA has stated that "less than five" babies were born as of 20 April 2023 using the technology. However, HFEA refused to provide precise numbers to protect the identities of the families. The details were published by The Guardian.&nbsp;

"News that a small number of babies with donated mitochondria have now been born in the UK is the next step, in what will probably remain a slow and cautious process of assessing and refining mitochondrial donation," stated Sarah Norcross, the director of the Progress Educational Trust.

WATCH | India among top five countries with highest rate of pre-term births: Report

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Meanwhile, Francis Crick Research Institute's Prof Robin Lovell-Badge said, "It will be interesting to know how well the mitochondrial replacement therapy technique worked at a practical level, whether the babies are free of mitochondrial disease, and whether there is any risk of them developing problems later in life."

Britain is not the first nation where children have been born through MDT. In 2016, the same procedure was used for a child who was created in Mexico.&nbsp;

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The first baby was created in the United Kingdom from the DNA of three people using a pioneering IVF procedure. The baby was developed using the process called mitochondrial donation treatment (MDT) in which the nucleus is taken from one of the eggs of the mother, which contains her DNA and is implanted into a donor egg.

The first baby was created in the United Kingdom from the DNA of three people using a pioneering IVF procedure. The baby was developed using the process called mitochondrial donation treatment (MDT) in which the nucleus is taken from one of the eggs of the mother, which contains her DNA and is implanted into a donor egg. The donor egg's nuclei are removed but its healthy mitochondrial DNA is retained. The process involves the creation of IVF embryos which are free from harmful mutations that are carried by their mothers and are likely to be passed onto their children. Unlike normal DNA, which contains the genetic information that helps in creating normal humans, mitochondrial DNA contains power for the cell. Researchers have drawn a comparison between the mitochondrial DNA and a battery. Various scientists insist that the term “three-parent baby” is not accurate because more than 98.8 per cent of the child's DNA still comes from two people. A green light was given by the UK parliament to the procedure in 2015 and requests for its use were considered by the regulatory body called the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). ALSO READ | SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study The first “three-parent child” of Britain was found in a Freedom of Information request made to the HFEA. As per reports, the clinic said that few babies have been born using MDT in the UK. The details of the babies who have been created using the MDT programme are not released by doctors amid concerns that the confidentiality of the patient can be compromised through specific information. The HFEA has stated that "less than five" babies were born as of 20 April 2023 using the technology. However, HFEA refused to provide precise numbers to protect the identities of the families. The details were published by The Guardian. "News that a small number of babies with donated mitochondria have now been born in the UK is the next step, in what will probably remain a slow and cautious process of assessing and refining mitochondrial donation," stated Sarah Norcross, the director of the Progress Educational Trust. WATCH | India among top five countries with highest rate of pre-term births: Report Meanwhile, Francis Crick Research Institute's Prof Robin Lovell-Badge said, "It will be interesting to know how well the mitochondrial replacement therapy technique worked at a practical level, whether the babies are free of mitochondrial disease, and whether there is any risk of them developing problems later in life." Britain is not the first nation where children have been born through MDT. In 2016, the same procedure was used for a child who was created in Mexico. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

First UK baby with DNA from three people born through IVF

A study has found that remnants of million-year-old viruses passed down in humans, could have been hiding inside DNA, and might help the body fight cancers. Scientists believe that the findings could be useful to treat more people to survive lung cancer. &nbsp;

A group of scientists were studying lung cancer and analysing why some patients respond better than others to immunotherapy.&nbsp;

Lung cancer is a type of cancer which begins in the lungs and spreads to other organs. It is common cancer, caused by harmful cells in lungs and grows&nbsp;unchecked.&nbsp;

While the scientists at the Francis Crick Institute were studying lung cancer and related immunotherapy, they found that the dormant remnants become active when cancerous cells go out of control and then help the immune system target and attack the tumour.&nbsp;

Julian Downward, who is the associate research director and head of the oncogene biology laboratory at the institute, said: "This work opens up a number of new opportunities for improving patient responses to immunotherapy, a crucial step in helping more people survive lung cancer."&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05771-9">study </a>titled "Antibodies against endogenous retroviruses promote lung cancer immunotherapy" was published in the journal Nature this week.&nbsp;

A part of the story mentioned that anti-tumour antibodies are frequently induced in multiple cancer types, targeting both internal and tumour cell-surface antigens.&nbsp;

And these tumour-associated antigens (TAAs) include non-mutated differentiation antigens and shared tumour antigens, as well as antigens derived from endogenous retroviruses (ERVs)

Downward said: "We now know that areas of B cell expansion can help us predict a positive response to checkpoint inhibition. With more research, we could work to boost B cell activity in a targeted way for the patients less likely to respond."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as quoted by media outlets, Dr Claire Bromley, who is from the charity, said that for better understanding and any practical approach, more research was needed. But Bromley added: "Nevertheless, this study adds to the growing body of research that could one day see this innovative approach to cancer treatment become a reality."&nbsp; 
 
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A study has found that remnants of million-year-old viruses passed down in humans, could have been hiding inside DNA, and might help the body fight cancers. Scientists believe that the findings could be useful to treat more people to survive lung cancer.

A study has found that remnants of million-year-old viruses passed down in humans, could have been hiding inside DNA, and might help the body fight cancers. Scientists believe that the findings could be useful to treat more people to survive lung cancer. A group of scientists were studying lung cancer and analysing why some patients respond better than others to immunotherapy. Lung cancer is a type of cancer which begins in the lungs and spreads to other organs. It is common cancer, caused by harmful cells in lungs and grows unchecked. While the scientists at the Francis Crick Institute were studying lung cancer and related immunotherapy, they found that the dormant remnants become active when cancerous cells go out of control and then help the immune system target and attack the tumour. Julian Downward, who is the associate research director and head of the oncogene biology laboratory at the institute, said: "This work opens up a number of new opportunities for improving patient responses to immunotherapy, a crucial step in helping more people survive lung cancer." The study titled "Antibodies against endogenous retroviruses promote lung cancer immunotherapy" was published in the journal Nature this week. A part of the story mentioned that anti-tumour antibodies are frequently induced in multiple cancer types, targeting both internal and tumour cell-surface antigens. And these tumour-associated antigens (TAAs) include non-mutated differentiation antigens and shared tumour antigens, as well as antigens derived from endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) Downward said: "We now know that areas of B cell expansion can help us predict a positive response to checkpoint inhibition. With more research, we could work to boost B cell activity in a targeted way for the patients less likely to respond." Meanwhile, as quoted by media outlets, Dr Claire Bromley, who is from the charity, said that for better understanding and any practical approach, more research was needed. But Bromley added: "Nevertheless, this study adds to the growing body of research that could one day see this innovative approach to cancer treatment become a reality." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Traces of ancient viruses in DNA of humans could help fight cancer: Study

Police in Louisiana, USA have been able make major progress in a three-decade-old cold case due to advanced DNA technology. Parents of a baby killed in 1992 have been arrested. The female infant was found in a garbage bin after what the subsequent investigation revealed was a death by smothering. The case was registered as a homicide in 1992.

In a press release, Louisiana State Police (LSP) said that Inga Johansen Carriere, 50, of Avondale and Andrew K. Carriere II, 50 were arrested and were facing charges of murder of the baby. The department noted that investigators were able to link the crime to the couple due to the latest DNA technology, something that was not available in 1992.

"This breakthrough in the case is a testament to the advancements in forensic technology and the dedication of law enforcement agencies to bring justice to victims and their families," said the Louisiana State Police.

The dead infant was found on April 15, 1992 in Mississippi. It was found by a farmer who initially thought that a doll had been discarded in the trash bin.

"I moved the towel, and I says, 'oh my god! that's a little doll,'" the farmer told CBS news network back in 1992. "Then I said that ain't a doll. That's human flesh. And it turned me sick. I just got out and got my truck drove to my house, and called the authorities." &nbsp;

The autopsy revealed that the baby died in the morning on the day it was found. The baby was around three weeks premature and "lived a few minutes before being smothered" as per the authorities.&nbsp;

It has now been revealed that the crime was committed in Louisiana and the body of the infant was dumped in Mississippi.

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Police in Louisiana, USA have been able make major progress in a three-decade-old cold case due to advanced DNA technology. Parents of a baby killed in 1992 have been arrested.

Police in Louisiana, USA have been able make major progress in a three-decade-old cold case due to advanced DNA technology. Parents of a baby killed in 1992 have been arrested. The female infant was found in a garbage bin after what the subsequent investigation revealed was a death by smothering. The case was registered as a homicide in 1992. In a press release, Louisiana State Police (LSP) said that Inga Johansen Carriere, 50, of Avondale and Andrew K. Carriere II, 50 were arrested and were facing charges of murder of the baby. The department noted that investigators were able to link the crime to the couple due to the latest DNA technology, something that was not available in 1992. "This breakthrough in the case is a testament to the advancements in forensic technology and the dedication of law enforcement agencies to bring justice to victims and their families," said the Louisiana State Police. The dead infant was found on April 15, 1992 in Mississippi. It was found by a farmer who initially thought that a doll had been discarded in the trash bin. "I moved the towel, and I says, 'oh my god! that's a little doll,'" the farmer told CBS news network back in 1992. "Then I said that ain't a doll. That's human flesh. And it turned me sick. I just got out and got my truck drove to my house, and called the authorities." The autopsy revealed that the baby died in the morning on the day it was found. The baby was around three weeks premature and "lived a few minutes before being smothered" as per the authorities. It has now been revealed that the crime was committed in Louisiana and the body of the infant was dumped in Mississippi. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

DNA tech helps police crack murder of newborn baby three decades after the crime

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