Ancient Proteins 18–24 Million Years Old Found

Scientists have extracted and sequenced ancient proteins dating back 18 to 24 million years from fossilized mammal teeth found in Kenya’s Rift Valley and the Canadian Arctic. These proteins are preserved in enamel and are ten times older than the oldest previously recoverable ancient DNA, whose survival limit is about one million years. The research, published in Nature, reveals that enamel can retain molecular information far beyond DNA, enabling study of evolutionary history in both hot and cold climates. Advanced proteomics methods, including LC-MS/MS and mass spectrometry, identified a wide variety of proteins, clarifying evolutionary relationships of extinct mammals such as ancient rhinos and elephants. The findings challenge previous beliefs about molecular preservation in tropical regions and extend the reach of molecular paleontology. This breakthrough opens new opportunities to study ancient life in environments long considered unsuitable for biomolecular preservation.