Task 2.2.4. DNA analysis of permafrost samples
Task lead: CR05 UKBH Prof. DSc Eske Willerslev, Centre for Ancient Genetics, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
DNA extracted from 859 ancient sediment samples was amplified and
PCR products analyzed by high-throughput sequencing (on a Solexa
sequencer). Just under half of these samples yielded idetifiable
DNA. Many millions of individual sequences were processed, and many of
these could be assigned to plant taxa. A bioinformatic procedure
matched sequences with the arctic-boreal database developed by
Ecochange and with publically available plant DNA databases; the
results were screened to remove errors and ensure a reliable and
rigorous final taxon list.
The data produced include over 100 taxa identified to the species level
and many more groups of species/genera. Samples across the age range of
>125,000 yr to modern produced DNA sequences, suggesting little
effect of sediment age on DNA recovery. The ancient DNA dataset
forms the basis of a set analyses of past plant communities and past
climate that is currently underway.
Results
