Plasmodium falciparum in Ancient Egypt
Author Information
Author(s): Nerlich Andreas G., Schraut Bettina, Dittrich Sabine, Jelinek Thomas, Zink Albert R.
Primary Institution: Academic Teaching Hospital München-Bogenhausen
Hypothesis
Can ancient DNA of Plasmodium falciparum be identified in ancient Egyptian mummies?
Conclusion
The study successfully identified ancient DNA of P. falciparum in Egyptian mummies, indicating the presence of malaria in ancient Egypt.
Supporting Evidence
- Two samples tested positive for P. falciparum DNA from different tomb complexes.
- The specificity of the amplification was verified by sequencing with 99% concordance.
- Previous studies raised concerns about the specificity of immunologic tests for malaria in ancient mummies.
Takeaway
Scientists found traces of malaria in ancient Egyptian mummies, showing that people in ancient Egypt got sick from this disease.
Methodology
The study analyzed 91 bone tissue samples from ancient Egyptian mummies using PCR and sequencing to identify P. falciparum DNA.
Limitations
The study only tested samples from specific tomb complexes and did not find positive results in earlier periods.
Participant Demographics
Samples were obtained from adults with evidence of chronic anemia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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