Comment on "DNA from pre-Clovis human coprolites in Oregon, North America".
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.
Poinar
Hendrik
H
McMaster Ancient DNA Centre, Department of Anthropology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L9 Canada. poinarh@mcmaster.ca
Fiedel
Stuart
S
King
Christine E
CE
Devault
Alison M
AM
Bos
Kirsti
K
Kuch
Melanie
M
Debruyne
Regis
R
D000818:Animals; D046028:Canidae / Q000235:genetics; D004272:DNA, Mitochondrial; D005243:Feces; D005580:Fossils; D006239:Haplotypes; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000235:genetics; D009922:Oregon; D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; D055110:Radiometric Dating; D013995:Time
D004272:DNA, Mitochondrial