The untapped potential of ancient DNA in understanding evolutionary adaptations: from woolly mammoths to plant macrofossils

Zhenxuan Lai

doi:10.54254/2977-3903/2025.29091

Zhenxuan Lai^1,*

¹ Nanjing Normal University Affiliated High School, Jiangning Branch

^* Corresponding author: 1957195498@qq.com

Published: 31 October 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54254/2977-3903/2025.29091

Abstract

Ancient DNA (aDNA) research has transformed our understanding of evolutionary processes by enabling direct genomic analysis of extinct species. This study explores the potential of aDNA to decipher genetic adaptations through two key approaches: the genomic evolution of woolly mammoths and the underutilized resource of plant macrofossils. Through high-throughput sequencing and comparative genomics, we identified 3,097 genes with unique derived mutations in woolly mammoths, highlighting adaptations in hair development (e.g., AHNAK2), lipid metabolism (e.g., ACADM), immunity, and thermosensation [1]. Temporal genomic comparisons revealed that while most adaptive changes originated early, recent evolution refined traits such as fur quality and body size. Additionally, we demonstrated that plant macrofossils from calcareous lake sediments preserve endogenous DNA, enabling detailed studies of past flora and their responses to climate shifts [2]. These findings underscore the value of aDNA in revealing polygenic adaptation mechanisms and provide insights for modern conservation and crop improvement strategies. This research emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of aDNA studies and their critical role in linking past evolutionary processes to present-day biodiversity challenges.

Keywords: ancient DNA , adaptive evolution , paleogenomics , woolly mammoths , plant macrofossils

AEI Vol.16 , Issue 10

ISSN (Print): 2977-3903

ISSN (Online): 2977-3911

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Article Information

Received: 30 October 2025

Published: 31 October 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54254/2977-3903/2025.29091

Article Type: Research Article

Cite this article

Lai,Z. (2025). The untapped potential of ancient DNA in understanding evolutionary adaptations: from woolly mammoths to plant macrofossils. Advances in Engineering Innovation,16(10),46-50.

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The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.

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Volume Title: AEI Vol.16

Part of Series: Advances in Engineering Innovation

ISSN: 2977-3903 (Print) / 2977-3911 (Online)

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