Possible evidence of pregnancy and or famine in an ancient nubian female

Abstract

A female Nubian femur from the Manchester Mummy Collection exhibits periodic features of bone resorption, bone apposition and then bone resorption as demonstrated by bone histology. Bone is a metabolically active, dynamic, structural tissue whose development and maintenance is influenced by many factors, including nutrition, sunlight, hormonal secretions, and physical exercise. When biochemical or mechanical stresses occur bone cells respond either producing or resorbing bone. When food becomes scarce or of poor nutritional quality, for example in times of famine or flood, malnutrition and concurrent low calcium intake occur. In low blood calcium conditions, parathyroid hormone is released. This stimulates osteoclasts to break down bone tissue. When nutritional state normalises, bone is laid down again and this cycle recurs. Additionally, during pregnancy there is profound resorbtion of the maternal skeleton in order that the foetus may thrive. The condition of the observed bone is consistent with such cyclic events.