A new step forward in the ‘hunt’ for Leonardo da Vinci’s DNA and his living heirs: six possible descendants of the Renaissance genius have undergone genetic testing, and the analysis has revealed that portions of the Y chromosome—used for individual identification—match one another. This confirms the genetic continuity of the male line of the da Vinci family, at least since the 15th generation.

The latest update in research spanning over three decades is presented in the book published on Wednesday 21 May, Genìa Da Vinci. Genealogy and Genetics for Leonardo’s DNA, written by Alessandro Vezzosi and Agnese Sabato of the Leonardo da Vinci Heritage Association.