Medical and other researchers and science teachers around the world will be able to compare ancient DNA from humans from thousands of years ago with the genetics of modern day humans, thanks to a new world-first open access databank at the University of Adelaide’s Australian Centre for Ancient DNA (ACAD).
The Online Ancient Genome Repository (OAGR) catalogues a significant collection of DNA data from ancient human skeletons and microbes found in their dental plaque. Both raw and analysed data, along with details about the individual humans such as where they were found and how the data was produced, will be freely accessible in a searchable format.
OAGR will enable researchers to investigate key genetic and microbial changes over human evolution and the potential relationships to modern health. It may also be of interest as an education tool for science teachers who could direct a class in comparing ancient individuals with the genetic makeup of humans today.
“This unique and globally significant resource will be of great value for the medical research community in particular, and others doing research in the field of human evolution,” says Dr Jimmy Breen, ACAD Senior Research Associate.
“It will allow users to track the evolution of particular genes that are important in human disease through time and geography─potentially opening the way for the design of new therapeutic treatments against these diseases.
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