Genealogical search with ancient DNA nets possible descendent

VLAARDINGEN – Genealogists please take note. The search for descendants of the original Vlaardingen settlers is paying dividends. The molars found on two dozen human skeletons dug up in this Rotterdam-area town actually surprisingly had fairly good quality DNA, allowing it to be compared with genetic material collected from residents whose heritage was known to be local going far back in history. The search for ‘ancient’ Vlaardingen folk also netted a retired dentist whose DNA is remarkably similar to the material found on one of the skeletons. The project’s researchers are now preparing a follow-up study.