JOURNAL ARTICLE

Exclusive: Have scientists found Leonardo da Vinci's DNA?

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Stone, Richard 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the ongoing efforts of the Leonardo da Vinci DNA Project (LDVP) to identify potential DNA from the renowned Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci, particularly from a drawing titled "Holy Child." Microbial geneticist Norberto Gonzalez-Juarbe and his team have recovered DNA from the artwork, suggesting it may belong to Leonardo or his relatives, although definitive proof remains elusive due to the lack of known samples from Leonardo himself. The project aims to utilize DNA analysis as a new method for authenticating art, potentially revealing biological traits linked to Leonardo's exceptional abilities. LDVP's interdisciplinary team is also exploring genetic connections through living descendants and historical relatives, with hopes of gaining access to more significant artifacts for further study. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:190772173
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Sciencemag.org is the property of American Association for the Advancement of Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.