Researchers Identify Oldest Known Cold Virus in 18th-Century Woman's Lungs

What's Happening?

Scientists have identified the oldest known human RNA virus, a rhinovirus responsible for the common cold, in the lung tissue of a woman who lived in London approximately 250 years ago. This discovery was made possible through genetic analysis of preserved medical specimens. The research team, led by Erin Barnett at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington, utilized DNA sequencing techniques to recover the virus's RNA genome from lung samples preserved in alcohol. These samples were found in the Hunterian Anatomy Museum at the University of Glasgow. The RNA recovered was highly fragmented, but researchers successfully reconstructed the entire genome of the rhinovirus, which falls within the human rhinovirus A group. This extinct lineage is closely related to the modern A19 genotype, with a common ancestor dating back to the 1600s.

Why It's Important?

This discovery is significant as it opens new avenues for understanding the evolution of human illnesses caused by RNA viruses, which are known for their rapid evolution. The ability to recover ancient RNA from preserved specimens could provide insights into the historical prevalence and mutation patterns of viruses, potentially informing current and future public health strategies. The study also highlights the potential of using historical pathology collections to trace the evolution of diseases, offering a new perspective on how viruses have adapted over centuries. This could lead to better preparedness and response strategies for emerging viral threats.

What's Next?

The success of this study suggests that further research into ancient RNA viruses could be on the horizon. Scientists may begin to explore other preserved specimens in pathology collections worldwide to uncover more about the history and evolution of RNA viruses. This could lead to a deeper understanding of how these viruses have interacted with human populations over time, potentially influencing modern virology and epidemiology. The findings may also encourage the development of new methodologies for studying ancient viral genomes, which could enhance our ability to predict and combat future viral outbreaks.

Beyond the Headlines

The study underscores the importance of preserving historical medical specimens, as they can provide invaluable insights into the past. It also raises ethical considerations regarding the use of human remains in scientific research, emphasizing the need to respect the individuals whose tissues are studied. Additionally, the research highlights the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration between historians, archaeologists, and scientists to uncover the stories of past human populations and their interactions with diseases.