Why are bone and teeth often targeted in skeletal remains for DNA analysis?

Why are bone and teeth often targeted in skeletal remains for DNA analysis?

• A. They degrade quickly and yield poor DNA.
• B. They protect DNA from environmental damage and yield higher-quality DNA in challenging remains.
• C. They contain only mitochondrial DNA.
• D. They are easier to collect.

Answer: (B)

DNA preservation is best in hard, mineralized tissues because their dense matrix shields genetic material from environmental damage. Bones and teeth act like protective capsules: the mineralized bone and tooth structure limits moisture ingress, reduces microbial invasion, and slows chemical degradation, so DNA can survive longer than in soft tissues. In teeth, interior structures such as the pulp chamber and cementum can retain DNA, while the surrounding dentin and enamel help protect those DNA sources from damage. In bones, regions with very dense bone, like the petrous portion of the temporal bone, have historically shown higher endogenous DNA yields because their tight, compact structure further limits degradation and contamination. This combination—long-lasting preservation in hard tissues and their inherent protective environment—explains why bone and teeth are frequently targeted for DNA analysis when remains are degraded, burned, or aged.

DNA preservation is best in hard, mineralized tissues because their dense matrix shields genetic material from environmental damage. Bones and teeth act like protective capsules: the mineralized bone and tooth structure limits moisture ingress, reduces microbial invasion, and slows chemical degradation, so DNA can survive longer than in soft tissues.

In teeth, interior structures such as the pulp chamber and cementum can retain DNA, while the surrounding dentin and enamel help protect those DNA sources from damage. In bones, regions with very dense bone, like the petrous portion of the temporal bone, have historically shown higher endogenous DNA yields because their tight, compact structure further limits degradation and contamination.

This combination—long-lasting preservation in hard tissues and their inherent protective environment—explains why bone and teeth are frequently targeted for DNA analysis when remains are degraded, burned, or aged.