Ancient DNA reveals leprosy hit the Americas long before colonization

A groundbreaking study has reconstructed two 4,000-year-old genomes of the rare pathogen Mycobacterium lepromatosis, shedding new light on the history of leprosy in the Americas. This discovery indicates that Hansen's Disease, commonly known as leprosy, may have been present on the continent long before European colonization, challenging previous assumptions about its origins and spread. The research, conducted by a team of international scientists, utilized advanced DNA sequencing techniques to analyze ancient remains. These findings suggest that leprosy was endemic to the Americas millennia ago, potentially altering the understanding of how the disease evolved and spread across the globe. This revelation provides a new perspective on the interactions between ancient populations and their environments. The implications of this study are significant for both historians and medical researchers. By understanding the ancient presence of leprosy, scientists hope to gain insights into the disease's genetic evolution and resilience. This knowledge could inform modern strategies for managing and treating leprosy, which still affects thousands of people worldwide today.

— Authored by Next24 Live