Ancient human genome sequence of an extinct Palaeo-Eskimo

Area of Science:

• Paleogenomics
• Ancient DNA Analysis
• Human Population Genetics

Background:

• The genetic history of the first human settlers in Greenland remains largely unknown.
• Limited archaeological evidence exists for early cultures in Greenland.

Observation:

• A genome was sequenced from 4,000-year-old permafrost-preserved hair of a male individual.
• High-quality genome recovery (79% of diploid genome) was achieved using advanced sequencing technologies.

Findings:

• 353,151 high-confidence single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified, with 6.8% novel.
• Analysis suggests a Siberian origin for this ancient individual.
• Evidence supports an independent migration event from Siberia to the New World ~5,500 years ago.

Implications:

• This study sheds light on the peopling of the Americas and Greenland.
• It provides a genetic link between ancient Siberian populations and early New World inhabitants.
• The findings contribute to understanding human migration patterns and ancient population structures.