How much has modern technology enabled us to better understand the bacteria from the Stone Age?
Introduction
The Stone Age, also known as the Paleolithic Era, is considered the earliest and longest period of human history. It was characterized by primitive tools and weapons made of stone, wood, and bone. However, less is known about the microbes that coexisted with our early ancestors. A recent study has shed light on what bacteria existed during the Stone Age.
The Study
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, analyzed dental plaque from 48 European individuals who lived between 33,000 and 7,000 years ago. The dental plaque was extracted from the teeth and analyzed using advanced sequencing technology to identify bacterial DNA.
Findings
The study revealed that the bacteria present in prehistoric dental plaque were different from those found in modern humans. The researchers found that bacterial species such as Streptococcus mutans, which is associated with dental cavities, did not exist during the Stone Age. Instead, they found evidence of other bacterial species that are not commonly found in modern humans, including those associated with gum disease and respiratory infections.
Meaning
The findings of this study are significant because they provide insights into the evolution and adaptation of human oral bacteria over time. The research shows that the bacteria in our mouths have evolved along with us, adapting to changes in our diets and environments over thousands of years.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of studying ancient bacteria to better understand our own health. By analyzing prehistoric dental plaque, we can learn more about the microbiomes that coexisted with our ancestors, and how they have shaped our oral health today. This research has opened up new avenues for studying the evolution of human microbiomes and the role they play in our overall health.
References
- University of Copenhagen. (2021, June 30). What were Stone Age bacteria like? We now have the first clues. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 3, 2021 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/06/210630094628.htm