There were other items in the grave as well
This burial was obviously important to the mourners. Archaeologists found several more objects in the burial, including antlers and spear points. The two girls were buried together in a joint funeral. However, Sunrise Girl (the six-week-old newborn) appeared to be better maintained and provided the foundation for the majority of the DNA results.

There were other items in the grave as well
What, Exactly, Were The Researchers Studying?
To investigate the DNA, geneticists had to delve into the mitochondria. Science students remember mitochondria as “the powerhouse of the cell” because cells die without them. Every cell in the body has DNA, and the mitochondria power the cells. As a result, the scientists require healthy cells to examine—which is easier said than done.

What, Exactly, Were The Researchers Studying