What Beethoven's DNA reveals about his death, health and family
Research explores Beethoven's heritage through his DNA.
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Research explores Beethoven's heritage through his DNA.
Genetic analysis of the composer's hair reveals he was infected with hepatitis B—but there were likely other factors at play.
What did Beethoven die of? What hereditary diseases did he carry? Beethoven's hair reveals a lot, but by no means everything. One lock that was supposed to be his was actually from a woman.
What did Beethoven die of? What hereditary diseases did he carry? Beethoven's hair reveals a lot, but by no means everything. Unlocking the Code to Beethoven's Life Through His Hair.
A center for Beethoven studies at San Jose State University collected the hair samples for analysis.