Many similar studies have been reported using recent technological developments, including the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. It demonstrated the 229 bp mitochondrial DNA fragments from the dried muscle of an Equus quagga specimen preserved in a museum by cloning into the О» gt10 vector. The first ancient DNA study was published in 1984. Here, we reviewed the past and ongoing studies on ancient pathogenic and non-pathogenic viruses and the usage of ancient viral genomes to understand their long-term viral evolution.ДЄncient DNA and RNA are nucleic acids derived from archaeological or historical remains, including bones, teeth, mummified tissues, and coprolites. These ancient non-pathogenic viruses might be informative for inferring their relationships with ancient peopleвЂ™s diets and lifestyles. Recent studies revealed the existence of non-pathogenic viral genomes in ancient peopleвЂ™s bodies.

Reconstructed ancient pathogenic viral genomes have been utilized to estimate the past pandemics of pathogenic viruses within the ancient human population and long-term evolutionary events. Those specimens have preserved ancient viral DNA and RNA, which have been vigorously analyzed in the last few decades thanks to the development of sequencing technologies. Ancient viruses are detectable in various archaeological remains, including ancient peopleвЂ™s skeletons and mummified tissues. A unique approach to understanding viral evolution is the use of ancient viral genomes.

The COVID-19 outbreak has reminded us of the importance of viral evolutionary studies as regards comprehending complex viral evolution and preventing future pandemics.

Sequence of events