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Ancient genomics study reveals low HLA diversity in eastern hunter-gatherers
Onur Özer1, Nicolas Antonio da Silva1, Magdalena Haller-Caskie1
1Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology, Kiel University, Kiel, 24105, Germany.
Genome Biology
|July 29, 2026
Summary
Ancient hunter-gatherers in Russia show stable genetics and low immune gene diversity over two millennia. Specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles were unexpectedly common, possibly due to limited pathogen exposure.
Area of Science:
- Paleogenomics
- Ancient DNA Analysis
- Immunogenetics
Background:
- Eastern hunter-gatherers (EHG) influenced European ancestry, but their impact on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene diversity is unknown.
- The Sakhtysh burial complex in Russia offers a unique window into EHG genetic history, immune diversity, and pathogen exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic history and HLA diversity of the Sakhtysh hunter-gatherer population.
- To understand the relationship between genetic composition, immune gene diversity, and pathogen exposure in ancient populations.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide data analysis from 36 individuals (6800-4800 cal BP).
- Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotyping for 27 individuals.
- Pathogen screening for ancient infections.
Main Results:
- Sakhtysh population shows genetic continuity and affinity with northwestern Russian and eastern Baltic groups, with no evidence of admixture.
- First ancient hunter-gatherer HLA genotypes reveal low diversity and high frequency (approx. 50%) of specific alleles like B*27:05.
- Identified restricted pathogen spectrum, including Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, hepatitis B virus, and parvovirus B19.
Conclusions:
- The Sakhtysh community maintained genetic continuity through cultural shifts.
- Limited HLA diversity and high frequencies of certain alleles suggest adaptation to specific environmental factors and low pathogen diversity.
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