Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Interactive Tutankhamun DNA

National Geographic

Thanks to Ann Barrett for the link. Whether you believe in the results or not, this is still a rather good graphic representation of the DNA analysis in the family of Tutankhamun.

Genetic testing on 11 mummies revealed the remains of Tut’s parents, who were brother and sister. Tut’s father is very likely Akhenaten. The identity of his mother is still unknown. How do we know? Scientists collected DNA, then looked at eight sets of genetic markers (colored boxes in diagram below) to create a genetic fingerprint for each mummy. Shared markers help determine kinship.

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