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DNA from hunter-gatherer teeth reveals secrets of ancient plague

DNA extracted from the teeth of ancient hunter-gatherers has revealed evidence of deadly plague outbreaks approximately 5,500 years ago. The research, conducted by Macleod et al., suggests these outbreaks had significant impacts on early human populations. Additionally, the article mentions other scientific findings, including the transformation of Iron Age bones into tools, the discovery of a giant deep-sea crustacean, and advancements in dark-matter detection technology.

NATURE PODCAST

17 June 2026

Analysis shows evidence of deadly outbreaks 5,500 years ago — plus, a prototype dark-matter detector.

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Benjamin Thompson

Nick Petrić Howe

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In this episode:

00:45 Ancient evidence of deadly plague outbreaks

Research article: Macleod et al.

12:33 Research Highlights

Nature: Bones of Iron Age skeleton were whittled into tools

Nature: Giant crustacean of the deep sea steals a trick from bacteria

14:52 A prototype atom interferometer

Research article: Baynham et al.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-026-01941-7

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Read the full article at Nature News →
Source document: Macleod et al.

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Nature NewsParty-alignedCenter4 days ago
DNA from hunter-gatherer teeth reveals secrets of ancient plague

DNA extracted from the teeth of ancient hunter-gatherers has revealed evidence of deadly plague outbreaks approximately 5,500 years ago. The research, conducted by Macleod et al., suggests these outbreaks had significant impacts on early human populations. Additionally, the article mentions other scientific findings, including the transformation of Iron Age bones into tools, the discovery of a giant deep-sea crustacean, and advancements in dark-matter detection technology.

Bias read (Center): The article discusses scientific discoveries related to ancient plagues and technological advancements without taking a political stance or showing bias toward any particular ideology. It presents factual information based on research and does not include subjective commentary or biased language.

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