A thorough analysis of the distinctive and comprehensive pool of this prehistoric genetic information has revealed that the genes might have once been the protectors of the ancient hunter–gatherers or the shepherds of the Bronze Age from damaging pathogens. Further, the studies reveal that the genes may at present lead to a rise in the likelihood of neurodegenerative diseases which include Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis in Europeans, CNN reported.
What is the history of the research ?
The aspiring five-year-old project has involved a team consisting of 175 international experts together, who compiled earlier known ancient genomes with newly sequenced DNA sourced from hundreds of skeletal samples derived from museums as well as other institutions across Europe. This data combined forms the largest prehistoric gene bank in the world as per the scientists who are involved in the project.
Further, the researchers were able to utilize the database to describe the spread of the diseases and the genes over some time as populations began migrating and crossbreeding. The studies made a revelation about how particular and considerable changes in the environment, for instance, the move from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle towards farming, has been favoring some genetic variants.
By making a comparison between the prehistoric DNA with modern-day specimens, the researchers have obtained a new biological comprehension of weakening diseases and physical attributes in the present times. The original results were brought out in four papers in Nature, the scientific journal on Wednesday.
What are the findings of the research?
One of the main findings derived from the research’s first batch based on over 1,600 genomes in the database was related to multiple sclerosis frequently termed as MS which is a long-lasting autoimmune disease of the nervous system affecting a predicted 2.5 million people globally. It is a complicated medical condition that is shaped by numerous genetic and environmental factors with several symptoms which include vision problems, leg or arm movement issues, or problems with balance and sensation. Among those who are at the most risk of the disease are the Northern Europeans.
FAQs:
What do the scientists reveal about the huge database of the ancient DNA?
A thorough analysis of the unique and comprehensive pool of prehistoric genetic information has revealed that the genes might have once been the protectors of the ancient hunter–gatherers or the shepherds of the Bronze Age, from detrimental pathogens. Further, the studies reveal that the genes may at present lead to a rise in the likelihood of neurodegenerative diseases involving Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis in Europeans.
What is the background of the research study?
The aspiring five-year-old project has involved a team consisting of 175 international experts together, who compiled earlier known ancient genomes with newly sequenced DNA sourced from hundreds of skeletal samples derived from museums as well as other institutions across Europe. Combined this data forms the largest prehistoric gene bank in the world as per the scientists who are involved in the project.
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