Shroud of Turin DNA sheds light on its biological history
New research has uncovered the complex biological history preserved within DNA traces found on the Shroud of Turin, offering fresh insights into one of the world's most studied and debated historical artifacts.
Published in Scientific Reports, the study is the first to apply advanced genomic sequencing methods (rigorous PCR-free next-generation metagenomic sequencing) to official samples collected from the Shroud in 1978. By analyzing genomic DNA preserved within the linen fibers, the research offers the most comprehensive picture to date of the biological signatures left behind through centuries of human contact and biological exposure.
Noemi Procopio, professor of forensic science at the University of Lancashire, participated in the research, which was part of a collaborative international project. It identified multiple human mitochondrial DNA lineages, alongside a rich microbiome consisting of bacteria, fungi and salt-loving microorganisms.
DNA traces from cultivated plants, domesticated animals and Mediterranean red coral were also detected, highlighting the diverse environments and people the Shroud has come into contact with throughout its history.
What the DNA can reveal
Rather than determining the age or authenticity of the Shroud, the research demonstrates the power of modern forensic genomics and proteomics to investigate the biological history of objects.
It shows that, while centuries of human contact make it impossible to isolate any original DNA associated with the cloth, advanced metagenomic approaches can reveal valuable information about its preservation, environmental interactions and cultural history.
Traces of travel and handling
In addition to microorganisms commonly found on human skin, fungi and salt-adapted archaea, DNA from numerous plant and animal species was also identified. This included cultivated wheat, carrots, maize, bananas and peanuts, alongside cattle, pigs, chickens, dogs and cats. Together, these biological traces provide new details of the Shroud's long history of handling, storage and movement across different geographic regions.
Professor Procopio, professor of forensic science at the University of Lancashire, said, "The Shroud of Turin continues to fascinate historians, scientists and the public, and we're thrilled to reveal new information about the biological complexity preserved within samples collected almost 50 years ago by applying new cutting-edge forensic DNA technologies.
"The Shroud represents a rich archive of genetic information that has accumulated over centuries of human interaction and environmental exposure. While the DNA evidence cannot answer all the questions about the age or authenticity of the cloth, it provides novel insights into its biological history and demonstrates how advances in forensic science can unlock new information from historical artifacts."
Publication details
Gianni Barcaccia et al, DNA signatures preserved in the official 1978 sample collection of the Shroud of Turin, Scientific Reports (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-60684-7
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Citation: Shroud of Turin DNA sheds light on its biological history (2026, July 20) retrieved 20 July 2026 from https://phys.org/news/2026-07-shroud-turin-dna-biological-history.html
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