Whole-genome ancestry of an Old Kingdom Egyptian
Ancient Egyptian society flourished for millennia, reaching its peak during the Dynastic period (~3,150-30 BCE). However, due to poor DNA preservation, questions about regional interconnectivity through time have not been addressed as whole genome sequencing has not been possible to date. Here, we sequenced a 2X coverage whole genome from an adult male excavated at Nuwayrat (Nuerat, ??????). Radiocarbon-dated to 2,855-2,570 cal BCE, he lived a few centuries after Egyptian unification, bridging the Early Dynastic and Old Kingdom periods. The body was interred in a ceramic pot within a rock-cut tomb, potentially contributing to the DNA preservation. Most of his genome is best represented by North African Neolithic ancestry, among currently available sources. Yet, ~20% of his genetic ancestry can be traced to genomes representing the eastern Fertile Crescent, including Mesopotamia and surrounding regions. This genetic affinity is similar to ancestry appearing also in Anatolia and the Levant during the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Although more genomes are needed to fully understand the genomic diversity of early Egyptians, our results indicate that contacts between Egypt and the eastern Fertile Crescent were not limited to objects and imagery (e.g. domesticated animals and plants, writing systems), but also encompassed human migration.