Findings from the First Art Project
The First Art research project has revealed that ancient human DNA can survive on cave walls, particularly on panels of prehistoric rock art. Out of 54 samples collected from 11 caves, only 5 contained authentic ancient human mitochondrial DNA. Specifically, three samples showed DNA predominantly from females, one from males, and one remained undetermined. Analysis of two samples from Covarona Cave linked them to the genetic cluster of Western hunter-gatherers.
Led by researchers from Spain and Portugal, the First Art project brings together institutions from Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, China, and Germany. The study focused on 24 rock art panels, including simple markings, hand stencils, and pigment from the Altamira Cave. Among the 54 collected samples, authentic DNA was found in a calcite crust from Panel 11 in Escoural Cave, as well as in two non-pigmented samples from Escoural Cave and two from Covarona Cave.
Research outcomes
According to the results, two samples showed no faunal mitochondrial DNA, indicating direct human DNA deposition through saliva or other bodily fluids. The other three non-pigmented samples contained both human and faunal DNA, suggesting indirect deposition. The researchers emphasized that while they could not directly link the ancient human DNA traces to the creation of the rock paintings, this represents the first evidence that human DNA can survive on cave walls for millennia.
“It’s fascinating to think that we may have uncovered a new way to study prehistoric human existence.” — Alba Bossoms Mesa
Matthias Meyer commented: “This study fundamentally changes our understanding of where ancient DNA can be found. We were surprised to see that ancient DNA could be extracted not only from pigmented samples but also from cave walls with no visible signs of past human activity.” He also raised questions about who touched those walls—whether male or female—which population group they belonged to, and how far ancient humans ventured into deep cave systems.
The research also includes handprints recorded in the Colombian Amazon, in the Serranía de la Lindosa region, where 496 handprints were documented. 70% of these handprints feature decorative patterns on palms and fingers, with 256 showing spiral designs and 84 displaying linear motifs. The images in the Colombian Amazon date back approximately 11,000 years, with most drawings located 2 to 3 meters above ground level.
This study opens new avenues for exploring ancient human history, confirming that DNA can endure on cave walls even in places with no visible signs of human activity. This approach could further our understanding of ancient people’s cultural practices and their interactions with the environment. The findings may inspire new investigations in archaeology and genetics, expanding horizons for studying the past.
The discovery of ancient human DNA on cave walls opens new avenues for understanding prehistoric life. In a related study, researchers have successfully decoded 11,000-year-old handprints found in caves, providing further insight into the cultural practices of early humans. These findings highlight the interconnectedness of ancient art and human presence, enriching our knowledge of our ancestors' legacy.