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Scientists Declare Successful Extraction of Historical Biochemical Molecules from Vlad Dracula's 1475 Letter
Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad Dracula or Vlad III, ruled Wallachia (a historical region of Romania) from 1448 to 1477, infamously earning the moniker 'the impaler' for his brutal torture and massacre of enemies, surpassing even the fictional vampire count in horror.
Despite abundant historical records, the lack of a confirmed resting place has kept the portrait of the 'Real Dracula' shrouded in mystery. However, now, 500 years after Dracula's passing, two historical chemists from Kazakhstan - Gleb and Svetlana Zilberstein - claim to have successfully extracted genetic material of Vlad III.
According to the Daily Mail, this breakthrough was made possible by a letter dated 4-8-1475 in which a man self-described as the 'prince of Transalpine' informed the townsfolk of Sibiu of his intention to settle in their village. Signed ominously: Vlad Dracula.
Speaking to The Guardian, Gleb Zilberstein stated that the molecules they discovered are more stable than DNA and provide better insights into the environmental conditions, health, lifestyle, and nutrition of the historical individuals they belong to.
Research is ongoing, with hopes that these molecules will help create a more comprehensive portrait of this remarkable figure.
Previously, these researchers also extracted genetic material from the manuscript of The Master and Margarita by Soviet writer Mikhail Bulgakov, uncovering traces of morphine and proteins related to kidney disease, indicating the writer composed it while undergoing pain relief treatment for kidney issues.
