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A recent DNA study of Ludwig van Beethoven showed that the great composer had no genetic predisposition to musicality. Daily.afisha.ru writes about this with reference to Current Biology.
A group of scientists from Canada, the Netherlands, Sweden and the USA analyzed Beethoven's genome and identified its polygenic index (PGI), an indicator of the probable expression of genes. The composer's PGI level turned out to be lower than that of many modern people.
The study also found that Beethoven was not genetically predisposed to rhythm synchronization, which plays an important role in the development of musical talent. Loci of 69 genes are responsible for this function, and in Beethoven their activity was reduced.
In addition to genetics, scientists have studied Beethoven's predisposition to a number of diseases. They found that his liver problems could be due to genetic factors, not just a history of hepatitis and alcohol consumption.
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) – German composer, key figure of the “Viennese classical school”. He was born in Bonn, but spent most of his life in Vienna. Beethoven studied with Haydn and created many symphonies, chamber works, and operas. In the last years of his life he suffered from complete hearing loss.