Scientists have successfully sequenced the oldest known Egyptian genome, offering unprecedented insights into the genetic history of ancient Egypt. This groundbreaking research provides valuable information about population movements and the lives of people who lived thousands of years ago, contributing to a deeper understanding of human history.
Researchers from the Francis Crick Institute and Liverpool John Moores University extracted and sequenced the genome of an individual who lived between 4,500 and 4,800 years ago, during Egypt's early dynastic period. The individual's remains were discovered in 1902 in Nuwayrat, Egypt, and buried in a ceramic pot. The DNA was extracted from a tooth, enabling the sequencing of the entire genome.
The analysis revealed that approximately 80% of the individual's genetic ancestry originated from ancient North African populations, while the remaining 20% could be traced to Mesopotamia, primarily modern-day Iraq. This discovery provides genetic evidence of population movement and mixing between Egypt and Mesopotamia during this period, which was previously only suggested by archaeological findings. The process of sequencing ancient DNA is complex, as the sample contained only 3% human DNA, with the rest belonging to other organisms.
Analysis of the skeleton also indicated that the individual was likely a potter, based on physical signs such as enlarged thigh bones, repetitive arm movements, and arthritis in the right foot. These signs suggest the use of a foot-powered potter's wheel, a technology introduced in Egypt during this era. The study was published in the journal Nature on July 2, 2025.
This research opens new avenues for studying migration and population mixing in ancient Egypt, offering a more detailed understanding of the region's complex history. The ability to analyze ancient genomes provides a powerful tool for uncovering the past and understanding the genetic makeup of past populations. This knowledge helps us understand human evolution and the interconnectedness of different cultures.