OBJECTIVETo extracted DNA from ancient human teeth dated 3000 years ago unearthed in Xi'an and determine the genders for the individuals.

METHODSThirty five ancient human teeth were studied. A 'Reverse-root-canal' technique and a Chelex-100 solution were used to extract the DNA. Specific primers for Amelogenin gene were designed for PCR amplification.

RESULTSGenomic DNA was successfully extracted from 30 samples, for which 8 were determined to be males and 22 were females.

CONCLUSIONThe 'Reverse-root-canal' technique may be used for extracting DNA from ancient human teeth. Genetics method can supplement physical anthropology for determination of sex for ancient samples.

Amelogenin ; genetics ; China ; DNA ; analysis ; genetics ; isolation & purification ; Female ; History, Ancient ; Humans ; Male ; Paleodontology ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Sex Determination Analysis ; Tooth ; chemistry