[Molecular Archaeology for ancient Chinese epidemics: approaches and thinking].

Abstract

The traditional research on ancient epidemics are often restricted by historical records and archaeological findings, without direct empirical support. Molecular archaeology, as a newly-developing discipline, is revolutionizing the disease research for ancient time. Molecular archaeological techniques, such as ancient DNA analysis, enable to access pathogen genetic information and reveal critical aspects such as pathogen species, evolutionary patterns, transmission routes, and host interactions. This paper explored an innovative interdisciplinary approach combining the research of ancient epidemics in China with molecular archaeology. On the one hand, historical materials were collected and ancient clinical records were analyzed to provide background information and epidemiological assessments for the study of ancient epidemics. On the other hand, ancient DNA experimental techniques were applied with data interpretation, including sample collection, processing, DNA extraction, sequencing, pathogen screening, and phylogenetic analysis, to provide molecular archaeological evidence of ancient epidemics. The final conclusions were drawn on cross-validation and complementary analysis of historical data and molecular biological data. This multi-dimensional, evidence-based, interdisciplinary research method facilitates a comprehensive, in-depth, and accurate understanding of ancient epidemics. It indicates a new paradigm in ancient epidemic research in China with significant development potential, possibly driving major advancements in the field.