Dynamic changes in genomic and social structures in third millennium BCE central Europe

Area of Science:

• Archaeogenetics
• European Prehistory
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Europe's prehistory involved complex societal interactions, with limited regional genetic data.
• Understanding these interactions requires detailed genetic analysis of ancient populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate genetic changes and social dynamics in Bohemian prehistory.
• To analyze human genomes from ~4900 to 1600 BCE to uncover population movements and cultural shifts.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 271 ancient human genomes from Bohemia.
• Radiocarbon dating of samples to establish chronological context.
• Ancient DNA sequencing and population genetic analyses.

Main Results:

• Major migrations into Bohemia preceded the arrival of "steppe" ancestry.
• Three genetically and culturally distinct groups coexisted around 2800 BCE.
• Corded Ware and Bell Beaker groups experienced significant Y-chromosomal diversity changes and assimilated diverse females.
• The Bronze Age in Bohemia saw a population turnover of at least 40%.

Conclusions:

• Bohemia was a dynamic region with complex genetic and social transformations during prehistory.
• Migrations, assimilation, and population turnover significantly shaped the genetic landscape.
• The study provides unprecedented regional-scale genetic insights into European prehistory.