Abstract
Genetic analysis of archaeological remains may provide information of prime importance to the understanding of human past history. In order to investigate the history of Mongolian populations, we have analyzed the skeletal remains of 56 specimens excavated from the Egyin Gol necropolis located in northern Mongolia. This burial site is linked to the Xiongnu period, which extended from the 3rd century B.C. to the 3rd century A.D. The environmental conditions at this site were cold and dry, and the DNA preservation was exceptional, allowing nuclear markers such as microsatellites to be studied. Molecular analyses were performed on long cortical bone samples with the AmplF lSTR Profiler Plus kit (Applied Biosystems). Amplifications were successful for 47 of the 56 specimens analysed. Molecular sexing confirmed archeological data based on morphometric parameters and allowed the gender of four juvenile skeletons to be determined. Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis showed close relationships between several specimens and provides additional background information concerning social organization within the necropolis as well as funeral practices linked to Xiongnu populations.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
