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Inter- and intrapopulation studies of ancient humans
W W Hauswirth1, C D Dickel, D J Rowold
1Department of Immunology and Medical Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0266.
Experientia
|June 15, 1994
Summary
Ancient DNA analysis of the Windover site confirms a single, persistent ancient human population. This study provides insights into human prehistory and genetic evolution rates.
Area of Science:
- Paleogenetics
- Human Evolutionary Studies
- Population Genetics
Background:
- Genetic analysis of ancient human populations requires confirmation of sample homogeneity.
- The Windover site offers a unique opportunity to study ancient human DNA due to its age (7000-8000 BP).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if DNA samples from the Windover site represent a single, consistent human population.
- To analyze the genetic diversity and evolutionary rates of ancient human DNA.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human leukocyte antigen class I (MHC-I) using allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization.
- Microsatellite analysis of the APO-A2 repeat region.
- Sequencing of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) D-loop 3' region from multiple individuals.
Main Results:
- Confirmation of persistent nuclear and mitochondrial haplotypes throughout the Windover site's period of use, supporting its status as a single population.
- mtDNA Neighbor-joining tree analysis indicates some types are related to extant Amerind populations, while others suggest potentially distinct origins.
- Calculated human mtD-loop DNA rate of evolution ranges from 3700 to 14,000 years per percent change, aligning with independent estimates.
Conclusions:
- The Windover site represents a single, genetically stable ancient human population.
- Ancient DNA analysis is a powerful tool for investigating human prehistory and genetic change.
- Further sequence analysis is needed to fully resolve the origins of all observed mitochondrial types.