Comparative studies of DNA in recent populations and characterisation of ancient hereditary material have contributed very interesting facts to our understanding of evolution of modern mankind. Analysis of DNA homology in related species, assessment of mutations and polymorphisms in various populations and new DNA sequence data from prehistoric finds allowed ? via sophisticated DNA extraction techniques, PCR, sequencing and digitalised processing of genetic information ? insights into possible roots of Homo sapiens and related species, migration patterns and ancient cultural habits, thus enriching the palaeoanthropological discipline. However, a presentation of this development would not be complete without pointing towards the methodological limitations and manifold presentations burdened with artifacts, data misinterpretation and unjustified conclusions. Presently, this modern field of research is in its consolidation phase and new parameters for quality control and authentication are being implemented to avoid spectacular but unfounded reports. It is expected that most of the problems connected to old biomolecules may be closely related to fossilisation parameters. The future challenge will be the full understanding of the complex and multi-faceted processes underlying diagenesis, including the elucidation of nucleic acid ?postmortem damage?.
For the first time, high pressure was used for milk sterilization at the beginning of this century. However, only recently attention has been paid to this method and its possible applications in food preservation and inactivation of some viruses. In this review, we summarize high pressure effects on biological macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, ribosomes and other cell components. We also show examples of practical application of high pressure in food conservation and medicine.
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