Comment on "DNA from pre-Clovis human coprolites in Oregon, North America"

Science. 2009 Jul 10;325(5937):148; author reply 148. doi: 10.1126/science.1168182.

Abstract

Gilbert et al. (Reports, 9 May 2008, p. 786) analyzed DNA from radiocarbon-dated paleofecal remains from Paisley Cave, Oregon, which ostensibly demonstrate a human presence in North America predating the well-established Clovis complex. We question the authenticity of their DNA results and argue that in the absence of intact stratigraphy and diagnostic artifacts, and in view of carbon isotope anomalies, the radiocarbon dates of the oldest specimens are unreliable.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Canidae / genetics
  • DNA, Mitochondrial*
  • Feces*
  • Fossils*
  • Haplotypes
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American / genetics
  • Oregon
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
  • Radiometric Dating
  • Time

Substances

  • DNA, Mitochondrial