UK-based researchers from Anglia Ruskin University and Imperial College London, collaborating with Romanian partners, have provided compelling evidence of ameloblastoma—a benign jaw tumour—in a Telmatosaurus transsylvanicus fossil, dating back roughly 66–70 million years
Using scanning electron microscopy, the team identified erythrocyte-like structures within the jaw region, linked to the ancient tumour, hinting at remarkably preserved soft tissue remnants
why it matters
- Understanding Cancer’s Deep Roots
This discovery shows that cancer isn’t solely a modern disease—it affected dinosaurs too. Tumours like ameloblastoma in species this ancient suggest evolutionary continuity in disease mechanisms over tens of millions of years - Insights into Molecular Evolution
Researchers believe preserved tissues may hold protein-level markers, offering a window into ancient cancer biology. This may enrich our knowledge of how tumours develop, evolve, and resist treatment - A Treasure Trove in Fossils
Typically, only hard tissues survive fossilization. But finding soft tissue elements opens the possibility of molecular studies on more fossils, with major implications for paleontology and genomics .
🔬 Method & Findings
- The team selected a Telmatosaurus fossil previously linked to a jaw tumour.
- High-resolution microscopy revealed red blood cell–like structures near the tumour site.
- Proteomic analysis circled in on proteins preserved in calcified tissue—more stable than DNA.
- They confirmed the tumour as ameloblastoma, a type still regularly found in humans today edition.cnn
📚 Broader Implications
- Tracing Cancer Evolution
Comparing ancient tumours with modern ones may uncover fundamental biological mechanisms—ultimately aiding in treatment and prevention strategies - Fossils as Biological Archives
This shifts paleontology from studying only form and structure to also probing genetic and disease-related content from the past. - Future Research Avenues
Scientists are now keen to re-examine museum fossils for preserved proteins—potentially uncovering ancient pathologies, from cancer to metabolic disorders
Why It Matters
The revelation of cancer in a dinosaur fossil represents a pivotal moment: paleontological specimens can now inform modern medical science. Bridging ancient probabilities and present-day health, this finding deepens our understanding of disease evolution—and may inform next‑generation cancer treatments.
