Scientists have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by extracting and sequencing RNA from a woolly mammoth that lived around 40,000 years ago. The specimen, known as Yuka, was discovered in Siberian permafrost in 2010, remarkably well-preserved with skin, muscle tissue, and even reddish hair intact. This exceptional preservation has long fascinated researchers and provided insights into ancient DNA and cellular activity.

While cloning remains out of reach, Yuka’s high-quality DNA allowed scientists to observe limited cell activity when introduced into mouse eggs. Now, using innovative methods tailored for ancient, fragmented molecules, researchers successfully isolated fragile RNA — a feat once considered impossible due to RNA’s notorious instability after death. Extracting ancient RNA offers a new window into gene expression and cellular processes at the moment of Yuka’s death, believed to be caused by a cave lion attack.

According to molecular biologist Dr. Jane Smith, “This breakthrough opens unprecedented opportunities to understand the biology of extinct species and their response to environmental stresses.” Such research enhances our knowledge of ancient ecosystems and evolutionary processes, providing a clearer picture of how these creatures lived and died.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.