Stories in Genetic Code. The contribution of ancient DNA studies to anthropology and their ethical implications

Abstract

For several decades, biological anthropology has employed different molecular markers in population research. Since 1990 different techniques in molecular biology have been developed allowing preserved DNA extraction and its typification in different samples from museums and archaeological sites. Ancient DNA studies related to archaeological issues are now included in the field of Archaeogenetics. In this work we present some of ancient DNA applications in archaeology. We also discuss advantages and limitations for this kind of research and its relationship with ethic and legal norms.

Keywords

• Arqueogenética
• ADN Antiguo
• Marcadores Moleculares
• Poblamiento Americano
• Ética