Scientists have achieved a breakthrough by successfully sequencing the first complete genomes from 7,000-year-old mummified remains found in Libya's Takarkori rock shelter, revealing new insights into the population that inhabited a once-verdant Sahara Desert [1,2,3].

The groundbreaking study, published in Nature on April 3, 2025, analyzed DNA from two well-preserved female mummies discovered at the archaeological site in southwestern Libya. The research was led by teams from Sapienza University of Rome and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology [1].

The genetic analysis revealed a previously unknown and genetically isolated population that likely inhabited the region for tens of thousands of years. According to study coauthor Harald Ringbauer, this level of genetic isolation is particularly unusual compared to the more mixed populations found in ancient Europe [2].

The findings challenge previous theories about migration patterns in ancient North Africa. Despite evidence of cultural exchange through artifacts like pottery, the genetic data suggests the Takarkori people remained largely isolated, indicating that pastoralism spread through cultural diffusion rather than population replacement [1,3].

'We know now that they were isolated in terms of genetics, but not in cultural terms,' explained Savino di Lernia, study coauthor from Sapienza University of Rome [1].

The research represents a significant technical achievement in ancient DNA recovery. The team successfully extracted and sequenced genetic material despite the challenging hot and arid conditions of the Sahara Desert, which typically degrade DNA [3].

The site, dating to when the Sahara was a lush savanna with lakes and rivers supporting diverse wildlife, has yielded remains of 15 women and children who lived as pastoralists, herding sheep and goats while also relying on fishing [1,2].