DNA of a dangerous disease was hiding in an unexpected place - study

Scientists have discovered fragments of sheep pox virus DNA on medieval parchments made from animal skin. Researchers examined samples from the 8th-14th centuries and identified 21 viral genomes spanning from 1700 BCE to 1917 CE. This allowed them to reconstruct the virus's evolutionary history over 3,500 years.

Scientists accidentally discovered traces of ancient sheep pox virus DNA on medieval parchments made from animal skin. Researchers examined samples from the 8th-14th centuries and identified 21 viral genomes spanning from 1700 BCE to 1917 CE. This allowed them to reconstruct the virus's evolutionary history over approximately 3,500 years. Sheep pox is a viral infection that posed a threat to ancient livestock. Scientists suggest the virus diverged from related infections around 3000 BCE, coinciding with the development of sheep farming. DNA of the pathogen was also found on parchment made from calf and goat skin. Lead author of the study, Louis L'Hôte, noted that archives worldwide may contain genetic traces of animal disease outbreaks.