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Ancient Proteins Reveal Sex of 3.5 Million-Year-Old Hominin

2/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have unveiled the sex of a 3.5 million-year-old Australopithecus africanus by analyzing ancient proteins from its tooth enamel. This pioneering technique in paleoproteomics opens new doors for understanding our hominin ancestors and their variations, as detailed in the South African Journal of Science.

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Story summary

In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have unveiled the sex of a 3.5 million-year-old Australopithecus africanus by analyzing ancient proteins from its tooth enamel. This pioneering technique in paleoproteomics opens new doors for understanding our hominin ancestors and their variations, as detailed in the South African Journal of Science.