425 Million-Year-Old DNA Sample Found

Ananova ^ | 5-23-2002

[blam]

425 million-year-old DNA sample found

A British scientist has discovered the oldest sample of DNA known to man.

A 425 million-year-old micro-organism found in salt in a remote part of the US is 4,000 times older than the earliest DNA found so far.

Before this discovery, the oldest genetic material was taken from the remains of prehistoric mammals preserved in ice.

University of Leicester Professor William Grant said his discovery, in Michigan, opened up new possibilities for investigating the origins of life on earth.

He said it would provide a powerful tool for space missions seeking signs of extra-terrestrial life.

Story filed: 17:17 Thursday 23rd May 2002

[oldsalt]

A 425 million-year-old micro-organism found in salt in a remote part of the US is 4,000 times older than the earliest DNA found so far.

Wow! I thought I was oldsalt,but this is ridiculous!!

[BMCDA]

I don't know what time zone, though...

Well, the world was created on Oct 24, 4004 BC, at 2:00 in Mesopotamia ;^D

So it should be easy to figure out the time zone.

[Bloody Sam Roberts]

I don't know what time zone, though...

Hey, close enough.

[John Locke]

There were no time zones in 4004 BC. Back then, the Earth was still flat.

[Centurion2000]

Yup. Looks like we are routinely and continuously exposed to ancient organisms without harm.

I've got the scars from the mother-raptor in law to dispute that statement, thank you.

[null and void]

LOL! and some think it still is...