ScienceAugust 25, 2026

palaeoproteomic

PAY-lee-uh-pro-tee-AH-mik

Definition

Relating to the study of ancient proteins, specifically using advanced analysis of residual proteins found in archaeological samples like fossilized plaque.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'palaios' (ancient) and 'proteomic,' which refers to the study of a set of proteins expressed by a genome. It combines the study of deep-time origins with modern molecular biology techniques.

In the news

The term identifies the scientific method used to analyze proteins inside dental calculus, providing the researchers with direct evidence of what Osaka commoners ate centuries ago.

Ancient Dental Plaque Reveals Osaka Commoners Ate Prized Fish and Taboo Meat

Read the full article ↗

Discover Magazine

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