Image Credit: Johnica Winter, CC-BY 4.0

Ancient DNA Reveals Parasites in Early Mexican Communities

Archaeologists analyzing DNA from 1,100–1,300-year-old human feces in the Cave of the Dead Children, Mexico, have uncovered evidence of intestinal parasites that plagued ancient populations.
The study, published in PLOS One, applied advanced molecular techniques to 10 samples, identifying protozoa such as Blastocystis, multiple strains of E. coli, and human-specific pathogens including pinworm and Shigella. Pinworm appeared in most samples, suggesting it was widespread.
These findings indicate poor sanitation and frequent intestinal infections among the Loma San Gabriel people. Researchers emphasize that while the sample size is small, the study demonstrates how sensitive DNA methods can reconstruct patterns of health and disease in ancient societies.
The work highlights the potential of “biological time capsules” to reveal insights into human health, diet, and daily life over a thousand years ago.

Published on: 22-10-2025

Source: Phys.org