Beethoven's Hair DNA Unveils 200-Year-Old Mysteries

Researchers analyzing Ludwig van Beethoven's hair have discovered he likely suffered from a chronic Hepatitis B infection, which, along with alcohol use, contributed to his liver disease. The study, published in Current Biology, also debunked the theory of lead poisoning as a cause of his death, as a previously analyzed hair sample was misattributed. Additionally, a genetic mismatch in Beethoven's Y chromosome compared to living relatives suggests an extramarital event in his paternal line. The analysis did not find genetic causes for his hearing loss or gastrointestinal issues, indicating environmental factors may have played a role.