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Ancient DNA Reveals Plague Killed Siberian Hunter-Gatherers 5,500 Years Ago
Key Takeaways
- Plague DNA was found in 18 of 46 hunter-gatherers buried in the Lake Baikal region of East Siberia, dated about 5,500 years ago.
- The roughly 40% detection rate is higher than some reported at medieval plague burial sites.
- The ancient strains were previously unknown early forms of Yersinia pestis and appear to have been highly lethal.
- Researchers suggest the strains carried a genetic factor capable of provoking severe immune reactions.
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DT Editorial Team··via sciencedaily.com