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Mitochondrial super-haplogroup U diversity in Serbians
Slobodan Davidovic1, Boris Malyarchuk2, Jelena Aleksic1
1a Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering , University of Belgrade , Belgrade , Serbia.
Annals of Human Biology
|February 1, 2017
Summary
Mitochondrial DNA analysis reveals diverse maternal lineages in Serbians, reflecting Balkan pre-Slavic populations and migrations from Slavic and Germanic groups. This study enhances understanding of South Slavic genetic history.
Area of Science:
- Population Genetics
- Human Evolutionary Studies
- Mitochondrial DNA Analysis
Background:
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) data show genetic differentiation among South Slavs in the Balkans.
- Existing data lack resolution for female-specific genetic history and migration impacts in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively analyze complete mitogenomes of Serbians.
- To elucidate the genetic connections of Serbians with other South Slavic and European populations.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of 46 Serbian complete mitogenomes (super-haplogroup U).
- Comparison with approximately 4000 complete mtDNA sequences from modern and ancient Western Eurasians.
Main Results:
- Serbians share mtDNA lineages with Southern, Eastern-Central, and North-Western Europeans.
- Identified Balkan-specific mtDNA lineages (e.g., U1a1c2, U4c1b1) and shared lineages with West and East Slavs (e.g., U2e1b1, U4a2a).
Conclusions:
- Exceptional diversity in Serbian maternal lineages suggests contributions from autochthonous pre-Slavic Balkan populations.
- Migrations of various groups, including Bronze Age pastoralists and early medieval Slavic/Germanic peoples, shaped the Serbian mtDNA pool.
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