Ancient genomes in Southwest China revealed genetic interactions among diverse populations in the historical period
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Southwest China has been pivotal for agricultural spread, ethnic formation, and cultural diffusion. However, the genetic diversity and population structure of this area remain insufficiently explored, especially during the historical period. RESULTS: Here, we report genome-wide data of eight ancient individuals from the Songshan site in Guizhou dating back to the Song and Ming Dynasty. Our results reveal that most Songshan individuals are closely related to the Yellow River Basin farmers, while also showing significant genetic influences from southern East Asia, including affinities with ancients in Guangxi, coastal Fujian, and Southeast Asia. Additionally, some Songshan individuals displayed a high genetic affinity with local Hmong-Mien populations. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the complexity of genetic interactions and population movements during the historical period, providing new insights into the genetic landscape and ethnic formation processes in Southwest China.
Source: BMC Biology
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,690
Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Fudan University, Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province, Xiamen University, Guizhou Medical University, Ministry of Public Security of the People's Republic of China, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Jilin Office of Philosophy and Social Science, National Key Research and Development Program of China, National Social Science Fund of China
OpenAlex ID: W4411895243