Ancient DNA reveals reason for high MS and Alzheimer's rates in Europe

Amazing stuff!

"Researchers have created the world’s largest ancient human gene bank by analysing the bones and teeth of almost 5,000 humans who lived across western Europe and Asia up to 34,000 years ago.

By sequencing ancient human DNA and comparing it to modern-day samples, the international team of experts mapped the historical spread of genes – and diseases – over time as populations migrated. ...

They found:

1. The origins of neurodegenerative diseases including multiple sclerosis ...
2. How major migration around 5,000 years ago introduced risk genes into the population in north-western Europe – leaving a legacy of higher rates of MS today
3. Carrying the MS gene was an advantage at the time as it protected ancient farmers from catching infectious diseases from their sheep and cattle
4. Genes known to increase the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes were traced back to hunter gatherers

..."

Ancient DNA reveals reason for high MS and Alzheimer's rates in Europe: Researchers have created the world’s largest ancient human gene bank, and used it to map the historical spread of genes – and diseases – over time as populations migrated.