In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, researchers have successfully sequenced the genome of the deadliest form of malaria found in an ancient Roman skeleton. The study aimed to unravel the mitochondrial genome of Plasmodium falciparum, the most lethal strain of malaria, in order to shed light on its historical spread throughout Europe.

According to Harvard genomics researcher Daniel Neafsey, understanding the genetic data of European parasites, both ancient and recent, has been a crucial missing piece in comprehending the global movement of malaria. Despite the eradication of P. falciparum in Europe fifty years ago, the genetic information from this region remains elusive.

Malaria, known as one of the oldest and most widespread plagues in human history, claimed the lives of a staggering 150 to 300 million people in the 20th century alone. Representing 2 to 5% of all deaths during that period, the disease did not discriminate, affecting individuals from all walks of life.

The aim of this study was to fill the gaps in our knowledge about the global dissemination of malaria-causing parasites. It is believed that the five different species of Plasmodium, including P. falciparum, originated in Africa around 50,000 to 60,000 years ago and then spread worldwide. However, researchers have long puzzled over how and when malaria reached Europe.

The findings from this study suggest that P. falciparum likely made its way to Europe from Asia about 2,000 years ago, coinciding with the height of the Roman Empire. However, due to the limited number of available samples, further analysis is required to solidify these conclusions.

The implications of this research extend far beyond historical curiosity. By understanding how our ancestors dealt with malaria and how the disease may evolve, scientists hope to gain insights into combating malaria in the modern world. As our species continues to dominate the globe, it is crucial to comprehend the complex history and evolution of this deadly disease.

Further research is already underway to delve deeper into the genetic makeup of ancient malaria and its impact on human populations throughout history. With each new discovery, we inch closer to unlocking the secrets of this ancient foe and improving our ability to defend against its devastating consequences.