Scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) discovered an unusually well-preserved mummy about 1,000 years old in the Simapan area (Hidalgo state). Thanks to the dry and cool microclimate of the cave where the body was found, researchers were able to not only study the tissues, but also analyse the intestines and faeces of the ancient man. The research data was published in the journal PLOS One.
According to experts, the man died at the age of 21–35. His remains were carefully wrapped in cotton cloth and an agave fibre mat, indicating his high social status and membership in the Otopame hunter-gatherer culture.
The most striking result of the study was the discovery of unique microorganisms in the mummy’s intestines. Using the 16S rRNA sequencing method, the team led by Santiago Rosas-Plaza determined which bacteria had survived after a millennium. Among them were representatives of the Peptostreptococcaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae families, which are also characteristic of modern humans.
Of particular interest was the presence of the bacterium Romboutsia hominis, found for the first time in such an ancient sample. This microorganism is closely related to the microflora of humans today, which helps to trace the evolution of the human microbiome.
Based on the composition of the bacteria, scientists have suggested that the man’s diet included both plants and insects. Traces of microorganisms indicate the consumption of agave, yucca and prickly pear, as well as products of animal origin.
‘The data obtained allows us to better understand the dietary and lifestyle characteristics of the ancient inhabitants of Mexico. Studying the microbiome helps not only to reconstruct the past, but also to trace how human microflora has changed over the centuries,’ the authors of the study note.
The discovery by Mexican archaeologists not only sheds light on the life and culture of ancient peoples, but may also be the key to understanding the evolution of the human microbiome.
