Fossils of ancient chromosomes discovered

Our team, in collaboration with groups in Denmark and the US, have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by reconstructing the three-dimensional genome of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth, preserved in Siberian permafrost. Using what we termed paleoHI-C, we unveiled the DNA's intricate structure, remarkably intact due to a process called vitrification, which preserved the genetic material in a glass-like state. Our study revealed that woolly mammoths had 28 chromosomes, similar to their modern elephant relatives, but with key differences in gene expression that enabled adaptations to cold climates, such as dense hair, fat storage, and temperature regulation. This discovery offers more than just a glimpse into the biology of extinct species—it paves the way for new paleogenomic research, providing a blueprint to study ancient life forms in unprecedented detail. Moreover, the article fueled world-wide discussions about de-extinction, suggesting the possibility of reviving or hybridizing species like the woolly mammoth to address modern conservation challenges. By bridging the ancient past with cutting-edge science, this research enriches our understanding of evolution while hinting at transformative possibilities for the future of genetics and conservation.