Advances in Ancient Genomes

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, the rapidly increasing advancements of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have revolutionized our approach to ancient DNA research. Much research has contributed to overcoming earlier limitations, including the degradation and preservation of endogenous ancient DNA molecules, as well as the contamination by modern DNA. With the technological improvements regarding the capacity of recovery and the analysis of the ancient molecules, it is now possible to retrieve complete genomes from fossil remains or even sediment. Palaeogenomics offers a high-resolution means to uncover long-standing issues of confusion, for example, accurately identifying the taxon of an extinct species, detecting the possible information of interspecies interactions, and investigating the patterns of animal domestication. Genome-level study also greatly contributes to understanding the genetic variability of endangered species through time and helps conservation projects. Ancient genomes are providing a more comprehensive and a more complete perspective on the evolutionary history of modern and extinct species, which are challenging as they can only be inferred from the morphological analysis of fossil or subfossil materials.

This Special Issue will collect reviews and original contributions concerning the study of advances in ancient genomes of different organisms, considering accomplishments and challenges, methodological approaches, bioinformatics and analytical tools, and the current status and future prospects of paleogenomic research.

Prof. Dr. Xulong Lai
Dr. Junxia Yuan
Prof. Dr. Guilian Sheng
Guest Editors

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