Monkey business...and more
Genome sequencing allows a detailed look back in time that supplements and possibly surpasses the fossil record. This short piece in the NYT is a fascinating look at both evolution and the power of technology.
"No, the remarkable fact is not what our ancestors did five million years ago, but that we can find out about it by scrutinizing our genes.
Bit by bit, our ability to penetrate the mists of time is improving. At first, using only single genes, we began to reconstruct patterns of human migration. Then it became possible to examine small stretches of DNA, like the Y chromosome (passed from father to son). The immense sexual success of Genghis Khan is witnessed by the large number of men today who have his Y chromosome. Now that we can sequence whole genomes, we are undertaking investigations of far greater scope to reconstruct our ancient history and that of other organisms.
...we can examine evolution with a sophistication and subtlety that, even 10 years ago, we could only dream of.
"No, the remarkable fact is not what our ancestors did five million years ago, but that we can find out about it by scrutinizing our genes.
Bit by bit, our ability to penetrate the mists of time is improving. At first, using only single genes, we began to reconstruct patterns of human migration. Then it became possible to examine small stretches of DNA, like the Y chromosome (passed from father to son). The immense sexual success of Genghis Khan is witnessed by the large number of men today who have his Y chromosome. Now that we can sequence whole genomes, we are undertaking investigations of far greater scope to reconstruct our ancient history and that of other organisms.
...we can examine evolution with a sophistication and subtlety that, even 10 years ago, we could only dream of.
posted by Bob at 6:11 AM
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