A 2-parts series exploring one the most important innovations in Genetics: the Molecular Clock, a novel way to interpret random genetic mutations in every living creature – and deduce from them it’s evolutionary past. The series explores the scientific & theoretical foundation of the Molecular Clock, as well as the implications it had on our understanding of our own collective – and personal – pasts.

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Part I – The Secrets of Mitochondrial DNA

The Molecular Clock technique was invented by Emile Zuckerkandl. Several decades later, Dr. Rebecca Cann, who examined samples of Mitochondrial DNA, made an amazing discovery: she confirmed the existence of a single Mitochondrial Eve, and solved a Paleoanthropological mystery: Earth was once home to many different Human Species – from Homo Erectus to the Neanderthals. Yet today, they are all gone. When and how did the other humanoids disappear? The answer is hidden, of all places, in out DNA.

Credits

https://soundcloud.com/stevenobrien/unused-solemn-introduction-pie

https://soundcloud.com/arti-s-sound-library/clock-ticking-sound

https://soundcloud.com/stevenobrien/only-if-bonus-the-house-unused

https://soundcloud.com/stevenobrien/only-if-bonus-stealth-unused

https://soundcloud.com/vocation-directress-soli/alleluia-post-partum