Degraded and Paleogenomic DNA

DNA is a molecule that can survive in tissues even after the death of an organism. DNA can be extracted from most ancient organic remains such as bones, skin, teeth, appendages, feces, wood, seeds, shells, etc. Regardless of time, the state of such ancient DNA depends on the characteristics of the environment. In particular, the processes of preservation/degradation of DNA are influenced by the pH, temperature, humidity, pressure and DNA substrate adsorption. Hot deserts and caves, where the climatic fluctuations are limited, as well as permafrost and glaciers are prime locations where potential sources of ancient or degraded DNA can be found. A significant amount of paleogenetic information is also stored in museum samples, especially in the natural history museums of many countries.