Ancient DNA and MTHFR mutation: insights into human evolution and health
Abstract
Purpose: Scientists have discovered more information on ancient genes, migration patterns, and human population evolution by studying DNA extracted from old samples. This research aimed to synthesize current understanding of the relationship between MTHFR mutation and ancient DNA, exploring possible implications for our understanding of the evolutionary and genetic underpinnings of disorders.
Materials and methods: Genomic DNA isolation from petrous bone and teeth samples was performed using the Ancient DNA extraction from bones and teeth kit. In the obtained genomic DNAs, the gene-specific region was amplified by PCR, and the polymorphic locus located in this region was observed on high-resolution agarose gel. The MTHFR mutation was examined by genotyping based on DNA sequence analysis.
Results: MTHFR A1298C mutation was detected in three samples and MTHFR C1298C mutation was detected in one sample.
Conclusion: Looking at MTHFR changes in ancient DNA helps scientists understand how these gene differences affected human survival.
Keywords
References
- Pääbo S, Gifford JA, Wilson AC. Mitochondrial DNA sequences from a 7000-year old brain. Nucleic Acids Res. 1988;16(20):9775-9787. doi:10.1093/nar/16.20.9775
- Cooper A, Poinar HN. Ancient DNA: do it right or not at all. Science. 2000;289(5482):1139. doi:10.1126/science.289.5482.1139b
- Teixeira, JC. Ancient DNA: a direct window into the human past. Antropologia Portuguesa. 2024;(41):297-312. doi:10.14195/2182-7982_41_17
- Ronaghi M, Karamohamed S, Pettersson B, Uhlén M, Nyrén P. Real-time DNA sequencing using detection of pyrophosphate release. Anal Biochem. 1996;242(1):84-89. doi:10.1006/abio.1996.0432
- Voelkerding KV, Dames SA, Durtschi JD. Next-generation sequencing: from basic research to diagnostics. Clin Chem. 2009;55(4):641-658. doi:10.1373/clinchem.2008.112789
- Krings M, Stone A, Schmitz RW, Krainitzki H, Stoneking M, Pääbo S. Neandertal DNA sequences and the origin of modern humans. Cell. 1997;90(1):19-30. doi:10.1016/s0092-8674(00)80310-4
- Frieman CJ, Hofmann D. Present pasts in the archaeology of genetics, identity, and migration in Europe: a critical essay. World archaeology. 2019;51(4):528-545. doi:10.1080/00438243.2019.1627907
- Söğüt B. Zaman tünelinde gezilen kent: Stratonikeia. Lykos Dergisi. 2014.
Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Clinical Sciences (Other)
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
April 13, 2026
Submission Date
March 18, 2025
Acceptance Date
May 7, 2025
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 19 Number: 2
