First Pompeiian human genome sequenced

A study published in Scientific Reports this week shows the first successfully sequence human genome from an individual who died in Pompeii after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Before this, only a small portion of the Pompeiian human and animal remains had been analyzed.

The remains of two people were examined by Gabriele and colleagues and they were able to extract their genes. The shape, structure, and length of the skeletons indicated that one set of remains belonged to a male who was between 35 and 40 years old at the time of his death, while the other set of remains belonged to a female over 50 years old. The authors were only able to sequence the entire genome from the male's remains due to gaps in the female's remains.

Comparisons of the male individual's DNA with that of other ancient and modern individuals suggested that his genes were similar to those of modern central Italians and other people who lived in Italy during the Roman Imperial age. There are groups of genes that are found in Sardinia, but not in other people who lived in Italy during the Roman Imperial age. This shows that there may have been high levels of genetic diversity across the Italian Peninsula.

The male individual's skeleton and DNA were analyzed and found that there were tumors in one of the vertebrae and DNA sequences that were commonly found in Mycobacterium, the group ofbacteria that causes Tuberculosis. It is possible that the individual was affected by Tuberculosis prior to his death.

The authors theorize that it may have been possible to recover ancient DNA from the male individual's remains as the eruption may have provided protection from DNA-degrading environmental factors. They say the findings show the possibility to retrieve ancient DNA from Pompeiian human remains and provide further insight into the genetic history and lives of this population.

More information: Gabriele Scorrano et al, Bioarchaeological and palaeogenomic portrait of two Pompeians that died during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, Scientific Reports (2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10899-1. www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-10899-1 Journal information: Scientific Reports Citation: First Pompeiian human genome sequenced (2022, May 26) retrieved 26 May 2022 from https://phys.org/news/2022-05-pompeiian-human-genome-sequenced.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.