| Popis: |
As we have entered the DNA era, the study of paleogenetics has become an important research field. Therefore, it is worthwhile looking into ancient texts, vase representations and sculptures and, of course, skeletal remains, in order to track down the knowledge of our ancestors about congenital malformations and inherited diseases, in addition to factors related to epidemiology, genetic drifting, etc. The extensive Greek history rich in documents and art dating over several millennia and the great contribution of archeological and anthropological research provide an invaluable source to study the history of genetic disease in Greece from prehistory to recent years. Aristotle and other ancient Greek authors provided their observations on heredity, while evidence of various inherited diseases may be recognized in medical texts. The physical features of genetic causes of dwarfism, i.e. achondroplasia and pycnodysostosis, are accurately represented on vases dating back 2,500 years. Sculptures of hermaphrodites are in abundance throughout the Greek and Roman world. These are just a few examples from art and literature useful to delineate the evolution of knowledge about genetic disease through the centuries. © 2001, by Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co. All rights reserved. |
