Breakthrough: Scientists Recover RNA from Extinct Tasmanian Tiger

Scientists have successfully isolated and decoded RNA molecules from a 130-year-old Tasmanian tiger specimen, marking the first time RNA has been recovered from an extinct species. The genetic material has provided insights into the functioning of the thylacine's genes and could aid efforts to resurrect the species. This groundbreaking research expands scientists' understanding of extinct animals and has the potential to enhance the reconstruction of extinct genomes. RNA, which is more fragile than DNA, was previously not thought to endure for any length of time. The study serves as a proof of concept and paves the way for future attempts to recover RNA from even older extinct animals, such as the woolly mammoth.