NEW USES FOR OLD DNA

Several years have elapsed since the last report of million-year-old D NA, coinciding with increased standards for experimental procedures in ancient DNA research. Whereas many earlier studies are now regarded a s erroneous, the recent successful characterisation of Neandertal DNA has set new standards for the field. Researchers continue to find new ways to exploit preserved genetic information in studies of more recen t remains, widening the utility of ancient DNA. (C) Current Biology Lt d ISSN 0958-1669.