Detecting Tuberculosis DNA in Historic Bones
Author Information
Author(s): Lutz Bachmann, Barbara Däubl, Charlotte Lindqvist, Luise Kruckenhauser, Maria Teschler-Nicola, Elisabeth Haring
Primary Institution: Natural History Museum, Department for Zoology, University of Oslo
Hypothesis
Can Mycobacterium tuberculosis be identified from cortical bones of historic human remains?
Conclusion
The study found no detectable M. tuberculosis DNA in long bones from an 18th century cemetery, suggesting that other bone types may be more suitable for such diagnostics.
Supporting Evidence
- Only one sample yielded a positive result for M. tuberculosis DNA.
- Long bones are rarely affected by tuberculosis, making them less suitable for detection.
- Previous studies have shown higher success rates using vertebrae and ribs for tuberculosis detection.
Takeaway
The researchers looked for tuberculosis DNA in old bones but only found it in one skull, showing that some bones might not be good for this kind of testing.
Methodology
DNA was extracted from bone samples using ancient DNA protocols and subjected to PCR amplifications.
Limitations
The unpredictable state of DNA preservation in bones from museum collections limits general recommendations for bone types in diagnostics.
Participant Demographics
The study involved skeletal remains of 34 individuals, primarily elder females from a poorhouse.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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