New lipid biomarker data confirm the diagnosis of tuberculosis in the Granville mummy

Dating from c. 600 BC, the British Museum remnants of the mummified Lady Irtyersenu of Thebes remain from a thorough examination by Augustus Bozzi Granville almost 200 yvears ago. A previous investigation diagnosed the presence of tuberculosis in the remains, using biomarkers specific for tuberculosis. DNA fragments were amplified and lipids known as mycolic acids were profiled. The specificity of this diagnosis is now reinforced by the detection, in lung samples, of additional lipid biomarkers, namely my- colipenic and mycocerosic acids. A feasible scenario for the evolution of tuberculosis and its spread to the ancient Nile valley is outlined.