Italian researchers have identified six living relatives of the legendary Renaissance artist, engineer, and inventor Leonardo da Vinci. The discovery became possible through an updated and expanded genealogy project focused on the da Vinci family line, reports the Baltimore Chronicle, citing Iflscience.
The scientists studied over 690 years of family history, covering 21 generations, including 14 generations of direct male descendants from Leonardo’s family. Their genetic research focused on the Y chromosome, which is passed down the male line and remains nearly unchanged over centuries. This allowed the researchers to accurately trace kinship with the descendants of Leonardo’s younger half-brother, Domenico.
The newly identified relatives currently live in Italy and work in various fields, from office jobs to small businesses, with no connection to art or science. All of them share the same Y chromosome believed to have been passed down from Leonardo himself.
This study holds both historical and scientific value — it will serve as the foundation for future molecular-genetic investigations aimed at authenticating Leonardo’s remains. It could also help deepen our understanding of his biological characteristics, including his physical condition, health, and potentially even his abilities.
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