Scientists Extract Genomes from 1930s Tumors
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By
January 20, 2026
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2 min
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed innovative techniques using ancient DNA methods to extract viable genetic information from medical specimens up to 90 years old. This advancement offers pathologists new avenues to study disease evolution, particularly colorectal cancer, whose incidence in younger adults has notably risen. By optimizing DNA extraction and sequencing for highly degraded samples, they successfully reconstructed DNA fragments and analyzed microbial components. This methodology could revolutionize the exploration of historical disease patterns and trends.
1. New DNA techniques allow analysis of specimens up to 90 years old. 2. Focus on colorectal cancer due to its rising incidence in young adults. 3. Optimized DNA extraction methods can retain fragmented DNA. 4. Combination of ancient DNA workflows enhances historical disease study. 5. Research includes analysis of microbial DNA in specimens. 6. Potential to apply methods to other diseases beyond colorectal cancer. 7. Historical pathology archives can serve as genomic material sources.
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