Is T. Rex Related to Chickens?

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SUMMARY

The discovery of protein fragments from a 68-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex bone has provided definitive genetic evidence linking T. rex to modern chickens. This groundbreaking finding confirms that T. rex is a distant relative of birds, specifically chickens, marking a significant advancement in the field of paleontology. The research has garnered attention from various media outlets, including NPR's "Science Friday," highlighting its importance in understanding dinosaur evolution.

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  • Awareness of the significance of soft tissue discoveries in fossils
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  • Research the methods used in protein extraction from ancient fossils
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This discussion is beneficial for paleontologists, evolutionary biologists, and anyone interested in the connections between dinosaurs and modern avian species.

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CHICAGO, Illinois (Reuters) -- Tiny bits of protein extracted from a 68-million-year-old dinosaur bone have given scientists the first genetic proof that the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex is a distant cousin to the modern chicken. [continued]
http://www.cnn.com/2007/TECH/science/04/12/dinosaur.reut/index.html?eref=rss_topstories
 
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I think this is a huge discovery! I was hoping others would post comments because I don't know enough about paleontology myself. I recall reading about the finding of T.Rex soft tissue a couple of years back and wondering what discoveries it would lead to. More on the way I hope.

Thanks for posting the link!