Scientists study ancient DNA to reconstruct the genomes of extinct species using various techniques. One such technique is called “resurrection genomics” which involves sequencing the genome of previously extinct species using ancient germinated seeds. For example, researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi’s Center for Genomics and Systems Biology have successfully sequenced the genome of previously extinct date palm varieties that lived more than 2,000 years ago using this technique.

Another way scientists study ancient DNA is by extracting it from fossils and creating sufficient copies of that genetic material to allow them to study and characterize them. They can also use an existing genetic technique called de novo assembly, which allows a genome to be digitally pieced back together from sequenced DNA fragments.
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