Article 5TEJY How nit glue could help answer head-scratchers about our ancestors

How nit glue could help answer head-scratchers about our ancestors

by
Nicola Davis
from Science | The Guardian on (#5TEJY)

Scientists say ancient human DNA can be recovered from the cement made by head lice to stick eggs to hair

An unusual source of ancient human DNA could help scientists unpick details of our ancestors' lives and answer longstanding questions. The source? Nit glue.

Scientists studying mummified remains from South America that date back 1,500-2,000 years say they have recovered ancient human DNA from the sticky cement produced by head lice to anchor their eggs to hair.

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