SPAAM-community
@spaam_community
We are a community of researchers focusing on standards, precautions, & advances in ancient #metagenomics (SPAAM)
Have you heard of SPAAM? If you are interested in learning and keeping up to date about #metagenomes, #pathogens, #sediments recovered from archeological remains (in a community-based environment), read on! 👇
#MetagenomicsMonday aDNA from giant salamander fossils from Shikoku Island confirmed they belonged to Andrias japonicus, matching the mitochondrial DNA of the extant species. The population persisted until around 3,500–4,100BP. nature.com/articles/s4159…
Don't miss our #SPAAMTisch seminar given by John Tay on "Bayesian Phylogenetic Methods for Microbial Pathogens" here is the link to follow the talk **TODAY** at **4pm CET** Join Zoom Meeting ut-ee.zoom.us/j/94984441034?… Meeting ID: 949 8444 1034 Passcode: 986313
#MetagenomicsMonday aDNA analysis revealed a shift from zoonotic parasites in the pre-Roman period to a dominance of sanitation-related parasites in later periods. A multimethod approach proved most effective for reconstructing past parasite diversity. journals.plos.org/plosntds/artic…
#MetagenomicsMonday Clostridial neurotoxin genes are surprisingly common in both human and animal ancient remains, sreflecting the close ecological relationship between pathogenic Clostridia and decomposing tissue. sciencedirect.com/science/articl…
#MetagenomicsMonday Pathogen screening of a rural early medieval community uncovers a surprisingly high rate of infectious diseases (>30%). Researchers suggest that major climate changes at the time might have influenced the disease burden. doi.org/10.1186/s13059…
We are thrilled to announce our keynote speaker for #SPAAM7 – Aida Andrades Valtueña!🎉 @aidaanva

#MetagenomicsMonday Ancient DNA from marine sediments in Northern Greenland was used to trace marine mammal presence over the past 12,000 years, revealing that many species appeared earlier than suggested by the fossil record. doi.org/10.1038/s41467…
#MetagenomicsMonday New aDNA study tracks how Borrelia recurrentis, the bacterium behind louse-borne relapsing fever, evolved from a tick-borne ancestor, offering rare insight into how pathogens adapt to new vectors over time. doi.org/10.1126/scienc…
#MetagenomicsMonday While it's long been assumed that leprosy came to the Americas with Europeans, new evidence shows that a different species, Mycobacterium lepromatosis, was already infecting people here long before that! doi.org/10.1126/scienc…
#MetagenomicsMonday 🧬 Ancient DNA uncovers a lost harp seal population in the Baltic Sea that was genetically distinct from their Arctic cousins! Changes in climate and water salinity combined with human hunting likely sealed their fate. #ancientDNA onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ec…
🚨FINAL REMINDER Abstract submission for #SPAAM7 closes today at midnight!⏰ Don’t miss your chance to share your work! 🔗Submit now: forms.gle/qg9csLGu2u8ZnE…
🚨 FINAL REMINDER about the DEADLINE for the upcoming virtual summer school "INTRODUCTION TO ANCIENT METAGENOMICS" (4-8 Aug 2025). DEADLINE: May 30th 2025 To apply visit: spaam-community.org/wss-summer-sch… ❓ Contact: J Fellows Yates (@jfy133) or Prof. C Warinner (@WarinnerGroup)
#MetagenomicsMonday 🧬Advancing since 1984, ancient DNA (aDNA) transforms human history insights. Unveiling global perspectives, the research highlights a North-South gap, emphasizing collaborative strides for equitable progress. doi.org/10.3390/genes1…

🚨 We want to remind you about the DEADLINE for the upcoming virtual summer school "INTRODUCTION TO ANCIENT METAGENOMICS" (4-8 Aug 2025). DEADLINE: May 30th 2025 To apply visit: spaam-community.org/wss-summer-sch… ❓ Contact: J Fellows Yates (@jfy133) or Prof. C Warinner (@WarinnerGroup)
🚨 Still thinking about submitting your abstract? You have time until June 1st 🗓️ We have had great submissions so far and can’t wait to see more. If you’ve been meaning to submit, now’s your chance! 🔗 Submit here: forms.gle/GL3uxax7MYoBBi…
It’s here! The preliminary program is out, take a peek at what’s coming and mark SPAAM7 in your calendar!🎉

#MetagenomicsMonday🧬 Ancient DNA reveals that medieval Cistercian manuscript bindings often used sealskins sourced from the North Atlantic, highlighting unexpected material choices and extensive medieval trade networks. royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rs…

Super excited for a summer sessions of SPAAMtisch Seminars! 🎉 On May 14 at 4pm CET, Luis Victoria Nogales (@Luis_Victoria_ ) dives into early European farming via #sedaDNA🧬🪓 Do not miss this seminar and join us at this link: ut-ee.zoom.us/j/96961972121?…