Analysis of Gyimes Csango population samples on a high-resolution genome-wide basis.

Area of Science:

• Population Genetics
• Human Ancestry
• European Ethnography

Background:

• The Csangos are an East-Central European ethnographic group in Romania, traditionally divided into Moldavian, Gyimes, and Burzenland subpopulations.
• Previous research indicated unique East Asian/Siberian Turkic ancestry in Moldavian Csangos, potentially illuminating Hungarian ethnic history.
• This study focuses on Gyimes Csangos, a distinct and isolated subgroup, comparing their genome-wide genetic makeup with Moldavian Csangos.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct the first genomic analysis of Gyimes Csangos.
• To compare the genetic profiles of Moldavian and Gyimes Csango subgroups.
• To investigate the genetic isolation of Csangos on a genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) basis and assess Gyimes Csango isolation.

Main Methods:

• Genome-wide SNP analysis.
• Allele-frequency-based genetic comparison.
• Haplotype-based genetic comparison.

Main Results:

• Both Csango groups exhibit slight genetic differences from each other.
• Genetic isolation was confirmed for Moldavian Csangos and found to be present, though weaker, in Gyimes Csangos.
• Gyimes Csangos displayed a stronger East European or Asian-derived ancestry component.

Conclusions:

• Gyimes Csangos demonstrate a degree of genetic isolation comparable to Moldavian Csangos.
• The Asian ancestry identified in Moldavian Csangos appears to be present to a greater extent in Gyimes Csangos.
• These findings contribute to understanding the genetic landscape and historical migrations within East-Central Europe.