Scientists will solve the mystery of Leonardo da Vinci’s DNA

It became known that an international team of researchers came close to reconstructing the DNA of Leonardo da Vinci.

Leonardo da Vinci, genius of the Renaissance, whose discoveries and creativity still amaze the imagination. This is reported by the Leonardo da Vinci DNA Project.

Scientists conducted a 30-year genealogical study covering 21 generations and more than 400 people – from 1331 to the present day.

On the basis of archival sources, it was possible to trace the genealogy in the male line from Leonardo’s father and his half-brother to 15 modern descendants.

In six of them conducted DNA analysis, which confirmed the preservation of a unique Y-chromosomal marker transmitted through the male line.

In parallel, there were archaeological excavations in the church of Santa Croce in Vinci, where, according to assumptions, rest relatives of Leonardo – grandfather Antonio, uncle Francesco and half-brothers.

One of the fragments of male remains found is already undergoing a palingenetic study.

If his Y-chromosome matches the DNA of living descendants, it will confirm the authenticity of the family tree and open the way to analyze biological traces, possibly left on manuscripts or paintings of Leonardo.

The team hopes to uncover the genetic roots of Leonardo’s genius – his keen eyesight and creative talent – as well as the causes of possible illness and death.