THE ANALYSIS OF ANCIENT DNA: FROM MITOCHONDRIA TO PATHOGENS

Author

Tre Joseph Marcus Blohm

Year of Award

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Name

Anthropology

Department or School/College

Department of Anthropology

Committee Chair

Meradeth Snow

Commitee Members

Anna Prentiss, Greg Campbell, Jordan Karsten, Ryan Schmidt

Keywords

Ancient DNA (aDNA), Neolithic, Trypillia, Ukraine

Publisher

University of Montana

Abstract

Ancient DNA (aDNA) is arguably one of the most difficult science fields to work in due to the constant battle against contamination and degradation; however, it is also one of the most rewarding. aDNA researchers have consistently garnered interest the world over with their findings and sparking the curiosity of many who wish to know more about who we are as Homo sapiens. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and pathogen DNA were used in this dissertation to understand more about where populations came from, how they moved, and what their environment was like through the identification of their maternally inherited mtDNA and pathogens. This is a synthesis of my work and collaboration with other researchers both in lab and at the computer to add more data to the story of humankind.

Recommended Citation

Blohm, Tre Joseph Marcus, "THE ANALYSIS OF ANCIENT DNA: FROM MITOCHONDRIA TO PATHOGENS" (2023). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 12063.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/12063