Ancient protein analysis in archaeology

Jessica Hendy*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The analysis of ancient proteins from paleontological, archeological, and historic materials is revealing insights into past subsistence practices, patterns of health and disease, evolution and phylogeny, and past environments. This review tracks the development of this field, discusses some of the major methodological strategies used, and synthesizes recent developments in archeological applications of ancient protein analysis. Moreover, this review highlights some of the challenges faced by the field and potential future directions, arguing that the development of minimally invasive or nondestructive techniques, strategies for protein authentication, and the integration of ancient protein analysis with other biomolecular techniques are important research strategies as this field grows.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbereabb9314
Number of pages12
JournalScience Advances
Volume7
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Jan 2021

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