Researchers have uncovered thousands of preserved metabolic molecules inside fossilized bones millions of years old, offering a surprising new window into prehistoric life. The findings, detailed in a study released January 3, 2026, by New York University, reveal details about ancient animals' diets, diseases, and surrounding climates.

The research team successfully examined metabolism-related molecules preserved inside fossilized bones from animals that lived between 1.3 and 3 million years ago. One fossil even showed signs of a parasite still known today, according to the study. This new approach could transform how scientists reconstruct ancient ecosystems.

Timothy Bromage and Bin Hu of NYU Dentistry, who led the research, explained that the preserved molecules act as tiny time capsules, offering insights into the lives of these long-extinct creatures. By analyzing these chemical clues, scientists can determine what the animals ate, the diseases they carried, and even the environmental conditions they experienced. The team's analysis showed evidence of warmer, wetter environments than previously understood.

The process of analyzing these ancient molecules relies on advanced techniques in mass spectrometry and data analysis. Researchers extract the molecules from the fossilized bone and then use mass spectrometry to identify and quantify them. This data is then analyzed using sophisticated algorithms, often incorporating machine learning, to reconstruct the animal's metabolic profile. This allows scientists to infer information about the animal's diet, health, and environment.

The implications of this research extend beyond paleontology. Understanding how ancient animals adapted to changing environments can provide valuable insights into how modern species might respond to climate change. The discovery of ancient parasites also offers clues about the evolution of disease and the potential for emerging infectious diseases.

"This is a game-changer for paleontology," said Bromage. "It's like being able to read the diary of a fossil. We can now learn things about these animals that we never thought possible."

The research team plans to expand their analysis to a wider range of fossils from different time periods and locations. They also hope to refine their techniques to extract even more information from these ancient bones. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive picture of prehistoric life and the factors that shaped the evolution of life on Earth.