Scientists are exploring the possibility of uncovering Leonardo da Vinci’s DNA through his artworks, aiming to understand the genetic factors behind his extraordinary talents. Over 500 years after his death in 1519, the search for his genetic material has faced significant challenges. Da Vinci did not have children, and the location of his remains, previously housed in the Chapel of St. Florentin in Amboise, France, was lost during the French Revolution.
In the absence of verified remains, the team involved in the Leonardo da Vinci Project has turned to sampling artifacts linked to the artist. This includes paintings, letters, and sketches that he might have touched, potentially preserving traces of his DNA. Recently, researchers swabbed letters from a distant relative and a drawing titled “Holy Child” that some attribute to da Vinci, although its authenticity remains debated.
The research team discovered a variety of environmental DNA from the drawing and one of the letters, including evidence from bacteria, plants, animals, and fungi. Among these samples was a matching sequence of Y chromosomes from a male, suggesting a potential link to Leonardo. The findings were announced on January 6, 2024, in a preprint study that has not yet undergone peer review.
Innovative Techniques for DNA Retrieval
Dr. Norberto Gonzalez-Juarbe, an assistant professor at the University of Maryland, emphasized that the study does not assert the DNA belongs to da Vinci. Instead, it establishes a method for investigating other artifacts. The research team employed a minimally invasive technique to extract genetic material without damaging the artworks. After evaluating various methods, they found that dry swabbing could effectively collect enough DNA while preserving the integrity of the items.
The genetic material retrieved from “Holy Child” offers insights into the environment surrounding the artwork over the past five centuries. The researchers identified specific markers suggesting the piece originated in Italy, including DNA from an orange tree linked to the renowned Medici family, known for their citrus gardens in Tuscany. They also detected DNA from wild boar, which was commonly used in paintbrushes during the Renaissance.
Dr. Charles Lee, a professor at The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, noted that this project opens the door to understanding whether Leonardo had unique genetic traits that contributed to his artistic brilliance. “I’m hoping this study is an important first step towards that,” he stated.
Understanding Genetic Lineage
The analysis of Y chromosomes is crucial for tracing male lineage. In this research, the team conducted blind tests to ensure unbiased results, comparing genetic markers from the swabs with a comprehensive database. They identified that the samples belonged to the haplogroup E1b1, which is relatively common in Tuscany today, accounting for 2% to 14% of the male population in that region.
Previously, Leonardo was not associated with any haplogroup, making this finding significant. Should future studies consistently find evidence of the E1b1 haplogroup in objects linked to da Vinci, it could lead to a clearer understanding of his genetic background. While this study provides a foundation for future research, it does not offer definitive proof of his DNA.
Some experts have raised concerns about the choice of materials for DNA sampling. Francesca Fiorani, a professor of art history at the University of Virginia, suggested that more direct evidence, such as documents from Leonardo’s father, would yield more reliable results. Despite these criticisms, the methodology employed in this study has the potential to advance the search for Leonardo’s DNA.
Future research will focus on swabbing additional artifacts associated with Leonardo, particularly lesser-known works that have not been extensively handled. Gonzalez-Juarbe and Lee are also exploring the possibility of analyzing bones purported to be those of da Vinci. They believe that combining findings from various studies will enhance the understanding of Leonardo’s genetic legacy.
As the pursuit of da Vinci’s DNA continues, the integration of genetic analysis with art conservation practices could pave the way for new discoveries. The collaboration between art historians, geneticists, and biologists may ultimately lead to a more comprehensive understanding of one of history’s greatest minds.
