Mitochondrial DNA variation and the origin of the Europeans
Comas, D. ; Calafell, F. ; Mateu, E. ; Pérez-Lezaun, A. ; Bosch, E. ; Bertranpetit, J.
Springer
Published 1997
Springer
Published 1997
| ISSN: |
1432-1203
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|---|---|
| Source: |
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
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| Topics: |
Biology
Medicine
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| Notes: |
Abstract Sequences from the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region were analyzed in nine European and West Asian populations. They showed low genetic heterogeneity when compared to world populations. However, a Caucasoid population tree displayed a robust east-west gradient. Within-population diversity (ascertained through various parameters) and mean pairwise differences declined from east to west, in a pattern compatible with ancient population migration and expansion from the Middle East. Estimated expansion times indicate a Paleolithic event with important differences among populations according to their geographical position and thus a slower tempo than previously believed. The replacement of Neanderthals by anatomically modern humans, fully compatible with the present results, may have been a slower and more complex process than cultural change suggests.
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| Type of Medium: |
Electronic Resource
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| URL: |