Ancient Syphilis-like Diseases Uncovered in Brazilian Skeletons

Researchers have discovered the genetic material of the syphilis pathogen in the bones of individuals who died in Brazil 2,000 years ago, indicating that diseases similar to syphilis were already widespread in the Americas before Columbus's arrival. The findings challenge previous theories about the spread of syphilis and suggest that treponematoses, including endemic syphilis, were present in the region long before European contact. The study also indicates that recombination events have driven the development of syphilis-like diseases.