Inferring human colonization history using a copying model.
Genome-wide scans of genetic variation can potentially provide detailed information on how modern humans colonized the world but require new methods of analysis. We introduce a statistical approach that uses Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) data to identify sharing of chromosomal segments between populations and uses the pattern of sharing to reconstruct a detailed colonization scenario. We apply our model to the SNP data for the 53 populations of the Human Genome Diversity Project described in Conrad et al. (Nature Genetics 38,1251-60, 2006). Our results are consistent with the consensus view of a single "Out-of-Africa" bottleneck and serial dilution of diversity during global colonization, including a prominent East Asian bottleneck. They also suggest novel details including: (1) the most northerly East Asian population in the sample (Yakut) has received a significant genetic contribution from the ancestors of the most northerly European one (Orcadian). (2) Native North [corrected] Americans have received ancestry from a source closely related to modern North-East Asians (Mongolians and Oroquen) that is distinct from the sources for native South [corrected] Americans, implying multiple waves of migration into the Americas. A detailed depiction of the peopling of the world is available in animated form.
Hellenthal
Garrett
G
Department of Statistics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Auton
Adam
A
Falush
Daniel
D
D002877:Chromosomes, Human; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D040961:Genetic Drift; D014644:Genetic Variation; D005828:Genetics, Population; D015894:Genome, Human; D016045:Human Genome Project; D006801:Humans; D008957:Models, Genetic; D015233:Models, Statistical; D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide