Ancient Biomolecules

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. Explores how biomolecules — DNA, proteins, lipids and metabolites — persist in plant and animal remains, artifacts and sediments for thousands to millions of years, preserving key insights into long-term ecological and human history. Determines how these molecules are preserved, identified and analyzed within archaeological contexts to address interdisciplinary questions about evolution, migration, diet, disease, culture, tool production, health and environmental change. Interpretation of biomolecular evidence will draw from archaeological, historical and scientific sources to reconstruct past lifeways within their own cultural and environmental settings. Develops the ability through lectures, discussions and data analysis to assess the suitability for different biomolecular methods for addressing specific research questions and critically evaluate current scientific literature in the field. Skills learned are directly applicable to making informed, evidence-based decisions, empowering students to navigate information-rich environments with discernment and confidence. Prior knowledge in either biology/biochemistry or archaeology is required, but not both. TOPICS AND THEMES. Analysis of the hereditary biomolecules DNA, proteins, lipids and metabolites; large-scale ‘omics’ approaches, including genomics, metagenomics, proteomics, metaproteomics, lipiomics and metabolomics used to investigate complex systems; instrumentation including PCR, Sanger sequencing, whole genome sequencing (NGS and WGS), chromatography and mass spectrometry; specialized applications such as environmental DNA, microbiomes and dental calculus genetics and proteomics; biomolecule preservation and degradation; ways biomolecular techniques are adapted for archaeological considerations; integration with other lines of archaeological, textual, historic and scientific evidence. This course may incorporate topics that respond to current events, student interests or emerging issues relevant to archaeological biomolecules. Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in ANTH 202 or BIOL 111 , or approval of instructor; junior or senior classification.