Archival, paleopathological and aDNA-based techniques in leprosy research and the case of Father Petrus Donders at the Leprosarium ‘Batavia’, Suriname

ConclusionWe found no evidence that Donders contracted leprosy despite years of intense leprosy contact, but we successfully isolated an archaeological M. leprae aDNA sample from a control skeleton from South America.SignificanceWe successfully genotyped recovered aDNA to a M. leprae strain that likely originated in West Africa. The detected human mitochondrial haplogroup L3 is also associated with this geographical region. This suggests that slave trade contributed to leprosy in Suriname.LimitationsA limited number of skeletons was examined.Suggestions for further researchBroader review of skeletal collections is advised to expand on diversity of the M. leprae aDNA database.
Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - Category: Pathology Source Type: research