Researchers have discovered information about past diseases by analyzing DNA from
ancient mummies. Today leishmaniasis, which causes 500,000 deaths annually, is found in
many parts of the world. The deadly type, visceral leishmaniasis, is found mainly in North
Africa. The researchers tested DNA of bone from Egyptian and Nubian mummies. They
found leishmaniasis DNA in nine Nubian mummies from 550 AD, and in four Egyptian
mummies from 2050 BC, when Egypt had strong trade links with Nubia. Egyptian mummies
from before and after these dates showed no signs of visceral leishmaniasis. Researchers
concluded that the disease developed in Nubia. This research should help us to understand
the development of other diseases, and how to control and treat them.