Fossil DNA research- possibilities and limitations

The last four decades has brought significant development in the field of molecular archaeology and ancient DNA (aDNA). The novel methods cover a wide spectrum of research, ranging from the reconstruction of small fragments of mitochondrial DNA to large-scale studies of entire populations, combining sequencing of mitochondrial genomes, genes subjected to natural selection and entire nuclear genomes. Progress, particularly in the field of DNA sequencing technology, has made it possible to obtain information from paleontological and archaeological remains, thereby allowing us to examine the relationship between extinct and contemporary species. By introduction next-generation sequencing, it has become possible to recognize DNA sequence not only directly from remains but also from sediments from the depths of lakes and caves. This publication aims to provide the reader with knowledge about the possibilities and limitations of studies on human, animals and bacterial ancient DNA, as well as polish contribution to the development of this field of science.