Exploring how ancient DNA reveals human interactions with pathogens like the Black Plague
Official title: Characterizing Human-Pathogen Interactions and Natural Selection with Ancient DNA
Funded at California State University Northridge · NIH-10866559 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at ancient DNA from old samples to learn how humans have changed and adapted to diseases over time, especially during big outbreaks like the Black Death, helping us understand what helped people survive past pandemics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Northridge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Northridge, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $350,437 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM142939-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10866559 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the genetic history of human populations and their responses to infectious diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in historical genetics or those not affected by communicable diseases may not find direct benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how ancient DNA (aDNA) from archaeological samples can provide insights into human evolution and our interactions with pathogens over time. By analyzing genetic data from different historical periods, the study aims to understand how humans have adapted to diseases, particularly during significant outbreaks like the Black Death. The Amorim Lab will develop new statistical methods to analyze these time-series genetic datasets, allowing for a deeper understanding of host-pathogen coevolution. This research could shed light on the genetic factors that influenced human survival during past pandemics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic resilience to infectious diseases, potentially informing future public health strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in paleogenomics has shown promise in understanding human evolution and disease adaptation, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Northridge
Northridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guerra Amorim, Carlos Eduardo — California State University Northridge
- Study coordinator: Guerra Amorim, Carlos Eduardo
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.