Ancient DNA reveals origins of multiple sclerosis in Europe

A huge cache of ancient genomes spanning tens of thousands of years reveals the roots of traits in modern Europeans.

Sara Reardon
1. Sara Reardon is a freelance journalist based in Bozeman, Montana.

More than 1,600 ancient genomes have helped to trace the roots of a host of genetic traits found in modern Europeans. The genomes suggest that many characteristics — including a heightened risk for multiple sclerosis — were carried to Europe by people who migrated to the continent in three distinct waves starting around 45,000 years ago.

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Nature 625, 431-432 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00024-9

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