A new genetic analysis of Beethoven’s hair has revealed that the composer had a likely genetic predisposition to liver disease and had contracted hepatitis B months before his death. A team of researchers led by Cambridge University sequenced the composer’s genome by analyzing five locks of hair, shedding light on his health problems.
While the analysis was unable to establish a definitive cause of Beethoven’s hearing loss, the researchers discovered that genetic risk factors, combined with the composer’s high alcohol consumption, may have contributed to his liver condition. The international team analyzed strands from eight locks of Beethoven’s hair kept in public and private collections to gather more information about his health.
Johannes Krause from the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany said, “We cannot say definitely what killed Beethoven, but we can now at least confirm the presence of significant heritable risk and an infection with the hepatitis B virus.”
The genetic analysis of Beethoven’s hair also revealed some of his family’s secrets, including the fact that he had an illegitimate child with one of his musical patrons. The researchers were able to identify a descendant of Beethoven, whose DNA was used to confirm the composer’s genetic profile.
This new research offers a glimpse into the life and health of one of the world’s most famous composers. While it is impossible to know for certain what caused Beethoven’s hearing loss or ultimately led to his death, this genetic analysis provides valuable insights into his health issues.