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Intensive post-war migrations and mtDNA variation based on Poland case
Barbara Wasowicz1, Grzegorz Chrobak2, Marianna Soroka3
1Department of Genetics and Genomics, Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland.
Scientific Reports
|November 3, 2025
Summary
Genetic diversity in Poland
Area of Science:
- Population genetics
- Human genetics
- Anthropology
Background:
- Post-WWII population displacement in Western Pomerania, Poland.
- Resettlement by Poles from diverse origins.
- West Pomeranian Voivodeship population: 1.63 million.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variability in Western Pomerania.
- Compare genetic data with other European and Polish populations.
- Investigate population heterogeneity.
Main Methods:
- Studied 298 unrelated individuals from West Pomeranian Voivodeship.
- Analyzed the entire mitochondrial control region (16024..16569, 1..576 bp in rCRS).
- Identified haplotypes and haplogroups.
Main Results:
- High level of genetic diversity in mtDNA found.
- 243 unique haplotypes identified.
- Common haplogroups: HV, U, T, J, and R0.
- Probability of random match: 1:145.
- High heterogeneity compared to neighboring German populations.
Conclusions:
- Western Pomerania exhibits significant genetic diversity, among the highest in Poland and Europe.
- Mitochondrial DNA analysis reveals distinct population structure.
- Genetic profile reflects historical population movements and resettlements.
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