Solopharm announces the publication of a scientific article by the European University at St. Petersburg on the analysis of ancient DNA from a unique archaeological object: the stuffing of a Tashtyk culture funerary mannequin from the Oglakhty burial ground.
The research was conducted in Solopharm's cleanroom facilities and was published on December 5, 2025, in the journal BMC Genomics (Springer Nature).
The article is available at the link
About the Research
Ancient DNA is one of the most vital sources of knowledge about the natural environment and human cultures of the past. This is particularly relevant for the steppes of Southern Siberia and Central Asia — territories that have hosted diverse archaeological cultures over centuries. One of the most enigmatic is the Tashtyk culture (1st - 7th centuries AD), known for its unusual funerary rites and the creation of human-like mannequins made from animal skin and filled with herbaceous plants.
The study examined the DNA from the herbal stuffing of one such mannequin, discovered in 2023 at the famous Oglakhty archaeological complex - a site included in the UNESCO Tentative List.
It was revealed that 1,700 years ago, the flora of the Minusinsk Basin was very similar to that of today. However, the DNA of an extremely rare and now virtually extinct plant, Coleanthus subtilis (Mudwort), was found among the stuffing. This plant is typically found on riverbanks and in marshy areas. This discovery changes our understanding of the region's ancient flora and indicates the historical presence of vanished populations.
Importance for Science
This research provides science with new data on the climate, ecology, and cultural practices of Southern Siberia from 1,700 years ago.
Solopharm as a Technological Partner
Solopharm's modern cleanroom facilities provided the researchers with the necessary conditions to work with ultra-rare and fragile ancient DNA, which was a key factor in the successful analysis.
The European University expressed its gratitude to all the Solopharm specialists who supported and assisted the scientists at every stage of the project.
Comment from Solopharm
«We are proud that Solopharm's facilities have enabled a world-class study that uncovers important pages in the natural and cultural history of Siberia. Supporting fundamental science is an integral part of our mission. We thank our colleagues from the European University at St. Petersburg for their trust and high praise of our manufacturing site and laboratories.»
Solopharm will continue to support projects aimed at advancing science, implementing innovations, and expanding knowledge about the past and present of humanity and nature.