Researchers have identified unexpected pathogens in the DNA extracted from the teeth of fallen soldiers from Napoleon's army, which may have contributed to their deaths during the disastrous 1812 retreat from Russia. The study reveals that, alongside cold and hunger, infectious diseases played a significant role in the massive loss of life faced by the troops.

The article discusses how the analysis of ancient DNA extracted from the teeth of soldiers who died during Napoleon's ill-fated 1812 invasion of Russia reveals the diseases that contributed to the large loss of life in his army. Instead of being defeated by enemy forces, the troops succumbed to illnesses exacerbated by harsh conditions, leading to the death of approximately 300,000 men.