SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Pastimes : Archaeology
SCHX 27.12+1.2%Oct 27 4:00 PM EDT
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
From: Savant10/22/2025 11:33:41 PM
   of 7839
 
1,300-year-old poop reveals pathogens plagued prehistoric people in Mexico's 'Cave of the Dead Children' - Live Science

    • Site and Dating: Researchers studied 10 paleofeces samples from the Cave of the Dead Children in Mexico's Rio Zape Valley, dating from A.D. 725 to 920. The cave was previously excavated and used by the Loma San Gabriel culture, known for small-scale agriculture, unique ceramics, and occasional child sacrifice.
    • Methodology: The study employed molecular analysis techniques, including DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to detect microbes in the ancient feces. This aimed to expand upon previous findings of parasite eggs.
    • Key Findings: Every paleofeces sample contained at least one pathogen or gut microbe. The most common were the intestinal parasite Blastocystis and multiple strains of the bacterium E. coli (found in 70% of samples). Pinworms, Shigella , and Giardia were also identified.
    • Implications for Health and Sanitation: The high prevalence of detected microbes suggests poor sanitation among the Loma San Gabriel culture between 600-800 CE, leading to exposure to fecal waste. This exposure likely occurred through contaminated drinking water, soil, or food.
    • Advancement in Paleomicrobiology: The study identified pathogens like Blastocystis and Shigella for the first time in paleofeces. This highlights the potential of modern molecular methods to enhance our understanding of ancient human health and the pathogens that affected them.
    • Limitations: The researchers acknowledge that some pathogens may have decayed and are no longer detectable in the ancient samples.


avg.1news.io

Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News