Karol Darmoros, biorxiv.org
Traces of people
Analysis of genetic material revealed the presence of various DNA lineages from individuals who had contact with the cloth. Among them, haplogroup H33, „common in the Middle East and frequent among Druze”, as well as other lineages found in Europe and Asia, were identified.
Researchers also noted a distinct, almost 40 percent presence of genetic traces linked to India, which may be related to ancient trade contacts and the circulation of textiles.
Microorganisms
Scientists also examined microorganisms present on the fabric. „The reconstructed microbiome of the Holy Shroud reveals a rich diversity of microorganisms commonly present on human skin, as well as communities of archaea adapted to high salinity and fungi, including molds”.
Halophilic archaea are of particular importance. „They indicate storage in a saline environment or under high-salinity storage conditions”.
Environmental traces
Studies also showed the presence of plant and animal DNA, including wheat, corn, and cattle. This indicates centuries of contact between the cloth and various environments, as well as its movement through different regions of the world.
The authors note that the diversity of these traces may be related to historical intercultural contacts and subsequent stages of the Shroud’s storage.
History of the cloth
Radiocarbon dating analyses of fabric fragments indicate a period between the 15th and 18th centuries, which is associated with repair work carried out on the Shroud.
Although the research does not resolve the question of the Shroud’s authenticity, it provides new data on its history and storage conditions. It points to possible connections with the Middle East and a broad context of contacts between different cultures and populations over the centuries.
