Ötzi the Iceman and his microbiome-a 5,300-year-old relationship
Phys.org • • world
Key Points:
- Researchers at Eurac Research have mapped the complex microbial community associated with Ötzi, Europe's oldest natural human mummy, distinguishing microbes present during his life from those colonizing post-mortem, including gut bacteria and cold-adapted yeasts.
- The study found genetic material from Ötzi's original gut microbiome, offering rare insights into ancient human gut flora that differ significantly from modern industrialized populations.
- Cold-tolerant yeasts, likely from the glacial environment, have persisted on Ötzi's body for thousands of years and may have industrial applications due to their adaptation to extreme cold.
- The research revealed that some yeasts could metabolize phenol, a substance used in past conservation efforts, suggesting that preservation measures may have influenced the mummy's microbiome.
- Findings highlight the dynamic nature of the mummy's microbiome and underscore the importance of ongoing microbiological monitoring and further research to ensure Ötzi's long-term preservation.