The Genetic Structure of Cape Verdean Population Revealed by Y-Chromosome STRs

Background/Objectives: Y-chromosomal short tandem repeats (Y-STR) are genetic markers widely used in forensic and population genetics. However, despite their importance, many populations remain under-represented in published studies and genetic databases. One such population is the Cape Verdean, which, despite its unique history of admixture between European and sub-Saharan African populations, continues to be under-represented in global Y-STR reference databases. This study aims to characterize the Y-STR haplotype diversity and paternal lineage composition of the Cape Verdean population using a high-resolution STR panel. Methods: A total of 143 unrelated Cape Verdean men were analyzed using a set of 26 Y-STR loci, including rapidly mutating markers. Allele and haplotype frequencies were calculated, along with standard forensic parameters such as gene and haplotype diversity. Paternal lineages were inferred, and genetic relationships with other populations were evaluated using distance-based and graphical methods. Results: A total of 135 haplotypes were detected, with 88.8% being unique, yielding a haplotype diversity of 0.999. The most common haplogroups reflected both West African and European ancestry. Genetic distance analysis positioned the Cape Verdean population between African and European groups, supporting its intermediate and admixed genetic background. Conclusions: This study provides the first high-resolution Y-STR dataset for Cape Verdeans, contributing valuable reference data for forensic casework and population genetic studies. The results highlight the utility of extended Y-STR panels in admixed populations and underscore the need to enhance the representation of admixed populations in international forensic reference databases.