Rest in Peace ... But Not Forever

Scientists are petitioning to perform a DNA test on Frederic Chopin's heart, which was preserved in cognac nearly 150 years ago. The goal is to see whether the composer died from cystic fibrosis, instead of the tuberculosis that supposedly killed him. The Polish government has denied the request, but researchers continue the effort. This article in the Guardian quotes Michael Witt from the Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw as saying, "If we can prove Chopin suffered from cystic fibrosis, then we will have shown that a serious medical disability is still no barrier to achieving fame and success."