title: Comment on "DNA from pre-Clovis human coprolites in Oregon, North America".
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.
authors: McMaster Ancient DNA Centre, Department of Anthropology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L9 Canada. poinarh@mcmaster.ca
authors: Hendrik
authors: H
authors: Poinar
authors: Stuart
authors: S
authors: Fiedel
authors: Christine E
authors: CE
authors: King
authors: Alison M
authors: AM
authors: Devault
authors: Kirsti
authors: K
authors: Bos
authors: Melanie
authors: M
authors: Kuch
authors: Regis
authors: R
authors: Debruyne
mesh_terms: 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
chemical_list: D004272:DNA, Mitochondrial