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Monthly Archives: July 2025

MyAfroDNA > 2025 > July
28
Jul
Date July 28, 2025
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Ancient Egyptian Genome Reveals Roots to Mesopotamia


A landmark discovery, scientists have sequenced the genome of a man buried around 4,500–4,800 years ago at Nuwayrat in Middle Egypt, marking the oldest complete genome ever recovered from the region. Likely a potter in his 60s, the man was buried in a sealed ceramic jar carved into rock, a burial that helped preserve his DNA despite Egypt’s harsh climate.





This genome confirms ancient people-to-people contact between Egypt and Mesopotamia, echoing archaeological evidence of shared pottery styles and writing systems. The Nile likely served not just as a trade route for goods and ideas, but for human migration too.





The discovery demonstrates that DNA preservation is possible and important to build a clearer understanding of Africa's genetic history.





Learn more about this research here: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-02102-y






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14
Jul
Date July 14, 2025
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Africa’s Immune Genetic Diversity Demands Data Representation for Improved Tailored Vaccine 


Although Africa is the most genetically diverse region on Earth, it remains underrepresented in global immunogenetic databases, particularly for high-resolution Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) data critical to immune response and vaccine design.





In a new study, researchers analyzed HLA Class I profiles from South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Zambia. They found significant genetic differences not only between countries but also among ethnic groups within the same country. These comparisons with African American and European American populations confirmed that Africa’s HLA diversity is too unique for U.S.-based data to guide T-cell vaccine design.





The findings call for urgent investment in Africa-specific immunogenetic data to ensure vaccines are both effective and equitable. As the world pivots to T-cell-inducing vaccines, representing Africa’s true genetic data becomes a global health priority.





Read more about this study here


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07
Jul
Date July 7, 2025
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Invasive Malaria Mosquito An. stephensi Detected in Niger Raising Alarm for Sahel-wide Spread


For the first time, researchers have detected the invasive Anopheles stephensi mosquito in Gayi, a rural area in southern Niger Republic — a country already grappling with one of the world’s highest malaria mortality rates.
Genetic analysis confirmed its presence alongside native malaria vectors such as An. gambiae s.s., An. coluzzii, and An. arabiensis. The coexistence of these species has resulted in elevated biting and transmission rates, aligning with the surge in malaria cases reported in 2024.






Experts warn that without immediate investment in robust surveillance, targeted vector control, and regional collaboration, An. stephensi could spread rapidly across the Sahel and beyond. Its presence poses a serious threat to malaria control efforts, especially in vulnerable regions bordering Niger. Urgent action is needed to contain its spread and mitigate its public health impact across Africa.






Learn more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-07389-5


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05
Jul
Date July 5, 2025
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New Hope in The Fight Against Antibiotic Resistance


After years of stalled progress, the fight against antibiotic resistance is gaining momentum. Scientists are now exploring new ways to treat infections without relying solely on traditional antibiotics, a major shift that could reshape how we manage bacterial diseases worldwide.






Thanks to support from organizations like CARB-X and GARDP, researchers are pushing forward alternatives that were once considered too risky or radical. These include therapies like bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria), enzymes called lysins that break down bacterial walls, and even treatments that adjust the body’s natural microbiome.






Some scientists are testing immune-based approaches and CRISPR technology to target bacteria more precisely. These ideas are still early in development, but the growing investment and interest show a renewed belief that we don’t have to stay trapped in the old cycle of resistance.
The hope is that these innovative treatments, along with better diagnostic tools and smarter trial designs, could one day offer safer, more sustainable ways to fight deadly infections, especially as antibiotic resistance continues to rise.






This shift marks a new chapter in global health, where innovation may finally help turn the tide against superbugs.
Learn more here.






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