Detection of Ancient DNA of Encephalitozoon intestinalis (Microsporidia) in Archaeological Material

We have demonstrated the possibility of detection ancient DNA of Encephalitozoon intestinalis (Microsporidia, Fungi) in archaeological material by using molecular methods. The archaeological material originated from New Town of Prague (Czech Republic) from 18th/19th century. The ability to use molecular method to detect microsporidia extends the range of paleoparasitological inquiry, and could contribute to a better understanding of parasites shared between human and animals