Imagine a tiny code so powerful it shapes who you are – from the color of your eyes to your love for spicy food. This isn’t science fiction; it’s DNA, the amazing molecule at the core of life itself!
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a long, spiraling molecule found in every cell of your body. Think of it as a twisted ladder or a zipper that holds the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. This incredible molecule contains genes, which act like individual recipes for various traits and functions in our bodies.
DNA is the instruction manual for building an organism. It tells cells how to grow, function, and reproduce. These instructions are grouped into segments called genes. For instance, some genes decide your hair color, while others may influence how you digest food. What's fascinating is that tiny variations in this DNA code make each of us unique, contributing to our individual traits and even certain health predispositions.
DNA is not just about the present. It's a record of our evolutionary past. By studying it, scientists have traced human lineages back thousands of years and unlocked secrets of our survival and diversity. Looking ahead, it could be the key to groundbreaking medical treatments and understanding life at its most fundamental level.
Did you know that if you stretched out the DNA in one cell all the way, it would be about two meters long? That's around six feet – as tall as a doorway! Yet, it’s so tiny that it fits snugly into a space smaller than a pinpoint. Also, humans share about 99% of their DNA with chimpanzees and, surprisingly, about 50% with bananas!
Remember, DNA isn’t just biology – it’s the story of life, and you’re a unique chapter in this vast, unfolding book. Stay tuned for more from our "5-Minute Genetics" series, where we’ll unravel more genetic mysteries!
Did you know that autism affects boys 5 times more than it affects girls? It is hypothesized that girls have a specific "shielding" mechanism that protects them from conditions like autism. Scientists believe that multiple factors of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) act together to influence how one develops autism. But is there one most common cause of autism? This article aims to explore what is behind the screens of this complex genetic neurological condition.
Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disability that impacts an individual's communication, behavioral, and social skills.
It affects around 1 in 59 children in the United States.
The signs of autism usually appear in early childhood, by 12 to 18 months or earlier.
Since autism is a spectrum disorder, each individual's signs and symptoms vary.
Though there are several types of autism, they are all caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
While people with autism tend to have many challenges, they also are found to be skilled in few activities.
Due to the broad nature of this disorder, autism may occur with other conditions.
Though autism was earlier presumed to be environmental in origin, hundreds of genes are associated with this condition today, making genetic mutations one of the most common causes of autism.
The genes involved in ASD contribute to the various deficits in communication, cognition, and behavior.
This was also reported by a study conducted in the 1970s, which observed that monozygotic (identical) twins were more likely to share a diagnosis of autism than dizygotic (non-identical) twins.
Over the years, several studies have demonstrated a strong genetic component to autism.
Some genes that have been associated with autism include:
Environmental conditions such as maternal immune response in the womb or complications during birth may trigger genetic factors to cause autism.
Research suggests that girls with autism have more mutations than boys with the condition.
Further, studies have shown that boys may inherit the autism gene mutations directly from their unaffected mothers.
This suggests that girls may be more resistant to autism mutations than boys, who are more likely to develop the condition.
Hand-picked content for you: Which Parent Carries The Autism Gene?
Large-scale genome-wide sequencing studies of several psychiatric disorders have revealed a significant and extensive overlap of the risk regions (loci) with autism genes, making it difficult to differentiate between them.
Studies have demonstrated an overlap of genetic regions in five major psychiatric disorders:
with the involvement of the following genes:
Recent studies have also found mutations in loci of a few other genes like the dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8) and KN motif and ankyrin repair domains 1(KANK1) in all five conditions.
Fragile X syndrome is one of the most commonly identified causes of inherited intellectual disability and autism or ASD.
However, most people with Fragile X syndrome do not have a diagnosis.
Fragile X syndrome derives its name from the microscopic appearance of the X chromosome.
When observed under the microscope, the X chromosome in these individuals appears as it could easily break.
Males receive the X chromosome from their biological mother and the Y chromosome from their biological father. Females receive one X chromosome from their mother and one from their father.
So, males inherit the fragile X chromosome only from their mothers, but females can inherit it from both parents.
For this reason, females who have only one fragile X chromosome have protection from the features of the condition and tend to have milder symptoms.
On the other hand, since males have only one X chromosome, they experience more significant learning and emotional disabilities than females.
Around 80% of males with Fragile X syndrome show intellectual disability, poor cognitive abilities, emotional problems like anxiety, and obsessive worrying, all of which are similar to autism.
People with Fragile X syndrome may also show other features similar to autism, such as
A cleft chin, more famously known as a “butt chin,” is characterized by a dimple or crease in front of the chin. While it is a seemingly harmless trait, it can become pesky at times. From being a tough shaving spot to its increasingly prominent display on your portrait, it can cause minor inconveniences. But did you know that in some places, a cleft chin is considered a beauty trait? Whether you have chosen to embrace it or trying ways to get rid of it, understanding the genetics and inheritance of cleft chin can come in handy.
Did You Know?
The DNA data from your genetic ancestry test can be used to learn important things about your health, from your risk for heart disease and stroke to food intolerances and sleep disorders. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
A chin with a Y-shaped dimple in the middle is a cleft chin. It is a genetic trait.
People with less facial fat will have a more noticeable cleft or dimple on the chin. Cleft chin has had cultural significance in some communities around the world.
In ancient China, a cleft chin was associated with royalty.
This feature is most noticeable when the mouth is closed and the jaw is at rest.
The appearance of a cleft chin can vary in depth and size among different individuals.
Having a cleft chin is a normal variation in human anatomy and is neither a health concern nor a sign of any underlying medical condition.
It's simply a trait that can be inherited, much like eye color or hair type.
Cleft chins are a result of an unfused jawbone.
The shape of your chin is determined even before you are born.
As the fetus develops, the mandible or the jawbone grows from both sides of the head and meets in the middle of the chin.
In some people, the bones don’t fuse, leaving a small gap or cleft.
The skin over the tiny gap is indented, creating the dimple.
A cleft chin is the same as a chin dimple.
It is also colloquially referred to as “butt chin.”
Like our other facial features like eye color, nose shape, etc., a cleft chin is also a strong trait of genetics.
A cleft chin is caused due to mainly two reasons:
A cleft chin is inherited as a dominant trait.
You will receive two copies of a gene at birth from either of your parents.
If one copy is that of a cleft chin, you will likely have one.
However, you might sometimes have a cleft chin even though neither of your parents has it.
A cleft chin is a dominant trait.
A dominant trait means that if you have one copy of the cleft chin gene from one parent, you will likely have a cleft chin.
However, this theory is contested.
Sometimes, you can have a cleft chin even though neither of your parents has it.
This phenomenon is called “genetic penetrance,” a common genetic trait where genes skip a few generations before they appear again.
Since it is a dominant condition, theoretically, even if one biological parent has a cleft chin, there’s a 50% chance that you will also have it.
Genes that control tongue development also control chin development.
Tongue and jaw genes are also linked to the roof of your mouth and have a role in cleft palates and lips.
The genetic marker for cleft chin is located in chromosome 2, called rs11684042.
Cleft chins can appear differently in males and females due to hormonal influences and differences in bone structure. Generally, it might be more pronounced in males.
While genetics play a crucial role in the development of a cleft chin, environmental factors during fetal development can also influence its appearance.
Cleft chin is not something that one can "develop" as they age.
Therefore, a genetic test to understand the likelihood of developing a cleft chin would be pointless.
However, if you are curious about this trait, companies like 23andMe offer a test where they analyze 38 variants for cleft chin.
Even if you do not have a cleft chin, you may contain variants associated with them, which may express themselves in future generations through the previously seen concept called penetration.
A cleft chin genetic test could be a fun way to understand your "hidden traits."
The cleft chin is a Y-shaped dimple on the chin.
It usually happens when the two parts of the jaw bone do not fuse properly, which creates a gap or cleft.
Like many other traits, such as eye color or height, cleft chin also has a genetic basis.
It is hereditary, which means you are likely to have it if your parents have it.
No specific tests identify a gene associated with a cleft chin.
https://udel.edu/~mcdonald/mythcleftchin.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/cleft-chin
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3351211/
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/2/953
Gout is often thought to be the "disease of kings" due to its association with gluttony and alcohol consumption. This stigma has prevented us from exploring its root cause for many years. Research in the last decade suggests the cause of gout is a lot more genetics than just diet. Gout can affect anyone, but if you have an affected first-degree family member, your risk increases by 2.5x! This begs the answer to the question, "Is gout hereditary?" While we attempt to discuss this, we'll also touch upon how to learn your risk for gout via a genetic test.
Did You Know?
Many chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or gout are influenced by many gene changes. Each change adds to the risk of developing the condition. You can learn your risk for these conditions as well as recommendations to lower your risk using your existing ancestry test DNA data.
Learn How.
Gout is one type of arthritis that results in inflammation, tenderness, and redness of one or more joints (ankles, wrists, fingers, and knees), most frequently the big toe joint.
People with gout have high levels of a chemical compound called urate or uric acid in their blood (hyperuricemia).
Uric acid is formed when purines break down, which are found naturally in the body.
Purines are substances obtained from certain seafood and meat.
Alcoholic beverages and sweetened drinks also increase uric acid in the blood.
Generally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted by the kidneys through the urine.
But sometimes, the body produces excess uric acid, or the kidneys excrete too little uric acid.
During this stage, uric acid builds up, and forms sharp, needle-like structures called urate crystals that accumulate in joints, and the immune system reacts by causing inflammation.
Gout can be classified into two types based on the source of accumulation of uric acid:
Primary gout is due to overproduction or under-excretion of uric acid.
It is because of factors like dietary excess, excessive alcohol consumption, and metabolic syndrome.
Secondary gout is due to medications that induce hyperuricemia while treating myeloproliferative diseases.
Secondary gout is mostly a result of the comorbidity of such diseases.
Gout sufferers frequently experience sudden, excruciating pain attacks that start at night and last for up to 12 hours.
This extreme discomfort, which usually begins at night, is a significant symptom of gout.
Most people only have pain in one particular joint. Your big toe is commonly where it starts, although it can happen anywhere.
Other gout symptoms include:
With a strong genetic influence, gout is a condition that can be inherited. The heritability of gout is 65%!
Although there's no clear inheritance pattern, studies suggest that having a close affected family member can increase your risk significantly.
An estimated 20% of gout sufferers have a relative with the condition.
To explore the heritability of gout, a group of researchers analyzed 4.2 million families.
Study Observations
A meta-analysis published in 2018 suggests that the impact of genes on gout was much more significant than that of diet.
The study was done on 16,760 individuals with European ancestry.
They were exposed to several food items, some of which increased serum urate levels and others that it.
The researchers observed that diet only contributed to ≤0.3% of the variance in urate levels; by contrast, genetics contributed to a whopping 23.9% of the variance!
Genes that produce proteins that are responsible for urate transport play a prominent role in gout.
Urate transporters mediate urate excretion.
A variation in one of these urate-related genes may cause gout.
The genes that have so far been identified to have the strongest association with gout include
The SLC2A9 gene produces a protein called GLUT-9 found in the kidneys.
This protein regulates the reabsorption of urate from the urine back into the blood.
It also assists in the removal of urate through urine.
A mutation in the SLC2A9 gene may result in increased urate reabsorption or decreased urate excretion.
This could lead to hyperuricemia and, eventually, gout.
The ABCG2 gene produces a multifunctional transporter protein called ABCG2, primarily in the stomach and liver.
The protein regulates the excretion of urate via stools (or poop).
If the ABCG2 gene is altered, the protein won't be able to release urate into the intestines as it should.
As a result, urate excretion may decrease, increasing serum urate levels and leading to gout.
Now that we have seen that family history and genes play a vital role in gout risk let's explore some of the other factors that can contribute to the risk.
At present, no genetic test can confirm with 100% accuracy whether or not you'll get gout. But, it can really be helpful in understanding your risk for the condition.
These tests analyze commonly-associated genes with gout to identify the presence of genetic variants, if any.
If you possess a genetic variant, you may be at risk for gout.
You can then discuss the results with your doctor, who after considering your medical, family, and personal history, can recommend steps to lower your risk and prevent gout.
Researchers have identified several genes associated with gout.
Xcode Life's Gene Health report which analyzes your genetic risk for over 45+ health conditions, can help you understand your gout risk.
You can identify your genetic risk of gout by using your 23andMe (or any ancestry test) DNA data and placing an order for the Gene Health Report.
A Sample Gout DNA Report
The MTHFR gene is key to a process called methylation, which pretty much runs the entire show in our human body, regulating innumerable critical functions. The importance of a well-functioning methylation cycle, thus, cannot be overstated. But when there are unfavorable changes in the MTHFR gene, methylation could be affected, increasing your risk for numerous health conditions. A genetic methylation test is a simple way to identify whether or not you carry the MTHFR gene changes. Well, what if you do? The fix is as simple as it gets. Read on to learn more about MTHFR and methylation, how to get a genetic methylation test, and ways to combat MTHFR mutations.
Did You Know?
The DNA data from your genetic ancestry test can be used to identify if you have MTHFR gene mutations. You can discuss these results with your doctor, who can recommend the correct course of action for you. Download your DNA data and upload it to Xcode Life to learn about MTHFR and 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Methylation is a critical biochemical process within the human body, governing myriad functions from DNA production to brain chemical synthesis.
This intricate process is vital in regulating key bodily systems, including cardiovascular, neurological, reproductive, and detoxification pathways.
At its core, methylation is about turning biological gears and switches on and off, enabling the body to function optimally.
Central to this process is the MTHFR gene, which encodes for the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.
This enzyme is instrumental in processing amino acids, the fundamental building blocks of proteins. MTHFR's significance is particularly pronounced in a chemical reaction involving different forms of vitamin B9 (folate).
This reaction is a crucial step in the methylation process.
The MTHFR enzyme also aids in converting homocysteine into methionine, an essential compound needed by the body for protein synthesis and the formation of other critical substances.
In the study of genetics, a variant refers to any deviation in the DNA sequence from what is typically expected.
Focusing on the MTHFR gene, each individual carries two copies of this gene, inheriting one from each parent.
Notably, there are two common types of MTHFR mutations or variants: C677T and A1298C.
These genetic mutations are surprisingly prevalent. For instance, approximately 25% of people of Hispanic descent and between 10–15% of people of Caucasian descent in the United States have two copies of the C677T mutation.
These mutations are particularly important because they can lead to elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood.
Homocysteine is an amino acid that, at high levels, may be associated with a range of health issues, including birth anomalies, glaucoma, certain mental health conditions, and some types of cancer.
Understanding the possible genotypes for these MTHFR variants is crucial in determining an individual's genetic predisposition to these health issues.
The C677T Variant
The A1298C Variant
When the MTHFR gene is mutated, the function of the MTHFR enzyme may be reduced.
For instance, the C677T mutation is known to decrease the activity of the MTHFR enzyme, which can lead to an increase in homocysteine levels in the blood and reduced production of methionine, an amino acid involved in methylation.
This can result in hyperhomocysteinemia, which has been associated with various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases.
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test is a DNA analysis that focuses on genes associated with the methylation pathway.
This test utilizes raw data obtained from popular ancestry genetic testing service providers like 23andMe, Ancestry DNA, Family Tree DNA (FTDNA), Living DNA, and My Heritage.
The test analyzes more than 15 genes associated with the methylation pathway.
One of the key genes analyzed is the MTHFR gene, which plays a crucial role in the methylation pathway.
The MTHFR Report refers to the results of a genetic test that detects mutations in the MTHFR gene.
The test specifically detects two common mutations in the MTHFR gene:
The MTHFR Report will indicate whether these mutations were detected in the individual's genetic data.
In addition to the detection of mutations, the report may also provide an interpretation of the results.
The report also has a section titled “Other MTHFR SNPs,” which profiles your genotypes for variations in the other methylation genes, which are associated, in varying degrees, with MTHFR enzyme activity.
For a sample MTHFR report/ preview of the report, click here.
Katy Says
I’m so glad I confirmed once and for all about my MTHFR status. The genetic testing my practitoner offered was extortionate. After completing my AncestryDNA I was able to upload my raw data file with Xcode Life at a very reasonable price and receive a report that was very easy to understand. I now have a concrete plan on how to go about lowering my homocysteine and checking it’s status every year... Read More.
In Xcode Life’s MTHFR report, the initial section will specify which, if any, of the 2 prominent variants of the MTHFR gene you have.
Depending on the results, the MTHFR enzyme activity will be provided as a bar diagram.
If the pointer is in orange or red, please discuss the results with your doctor so that they can correlate them with family history and clinical symptoms to recommend suitable supplementation, if you require any.
The next section of the report includes information on variants in other genes that partially influence MTHFR enzyme activity.
The presence of a large number of homozygous (2 risk variants- red color) of high-ranking SNPs may be associated with lower enzymatic activity.
Improving methylation, a crucial biological process, can significantly impact overall health. Here are five natural ways to enhance methylation:
Bonus Tips
Additional strategies include increasing the intake of coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic or l-methylfolate, and vitamins B6 and B12, which are integral to the methylation process.
Maintaining gut health, improving stomach acid, and supplementing with antioxidants, magnesium, and zinc can also support proper homocysteine metabolism.
Remember, while these natural approaches can improve methylation, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially regarding supplementation and diet modifications.
Methylation is a vital biochemical process in our bodies, influenced significantly by the MTHFR gene and its two important variants, C677T and A1298C.
These common genetic mutations, found in a significant portion of the population, can lead to elevated homocysteine levels and associated health risks.
The Xcode Life Methylation Genetic Test offers an in-depth analysis of these variants using data from popular ancestry testing services. It provides a comprehensive MTHFR report, helping individuals understand their genetic predisposition to methylation-related issues.
To support optimal methylation, adopting a nutrient-dense diet, supplementing appropriately, regular exercise, adequate sleep, limiting exposure to harmful substances, and reducing toxin exposure are key strategies.
Additionally, incorporating specific nutrients and supplements like coenzyme Q10, phosphatidylcholine, folinic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 can further enhance methylation processes.
It's important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and to ensure these natural methods align with your individual health needs.
https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2012112
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326181
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/mthfr-gene-and-folic-acid.html
Have you ever wondered what secrets your DNA could reveal about your ancient forebears or the paths they traversed? Haplogroups are like signposts from the past, markers in our DNA that trace back through generations to reveal where we come from. They are like branches on the family tree of humanity, tracing our lineage back to common ancestors. By understanding haplogroups, you're not just exploring your personal history; you're also tapping into the migratory tales of our species and even discovering how certain genetic traits may affect health.
Did You Know?
The DNA data from your genetic ancestry test can be used to learn important things about your health, from your risk for heart disease and stroke to food intolerances and sleep disorders. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
According to the International Society of Genetic Genealogy, a haplogroup is a group of people who share a common ancestor on either their patriline or matriline.
Haplogroups follow male and female ancestry lines.
The Y DNA is passed down from father to son, while the mtDNA or mitochondrial DNA is passed from the mother to both the son and the daughter.
Each time a DNA mutated, a group split off and formed their haplogroup.
Your haplogroup can tell you a lot about your ancestry.
Haplogroups are associated with particular geographical regions.
They can tell us about our ancestor's migration routes out of Africa.
Haplogroups can also identify links to a group of people with the same ancestor.
All modern Europeans are classified into seven groups called mitochondrial haplogroups.
A set of mutations in the mitochondrial genome defines each haplogroup.
It can be traced to a specific prehistoric woman along a person's maternal line.
In his book The Seven Daughters of Eve, Bryan Sykes refers to these women as "clan mothers."
The clan mothers correspond to one or more human mitochondrial haplogroups:
The Most Common Haplogroup
MtDNA H is a haplogroup found in 40% of the European population, making it the most common haplogroup in the West.
It is common in North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Northern Asia.
L1, L2 and L3 are Africa's most common mtDNA haplogroups.
R1 is the most common in Europe for Y DNA haplogroups, while C and A are most prevalent in Africa.
Haplogroups can identify the genetic lineage of a person.
It can also identify the early migration routes of human beings.
Sometimes, there are specific diseases found in certain populations.
These diseases can be traced back to a mutation in the Y chromosome or the mitochondrial DNA.
Testing for such mutations during haplogroup studies can help us treat these disorders better.
Dawn Says
I have been struggling for years searching for answers for health issues I have been having. Sending in my DNA to getting the results took less then 24hours. So simple, most importantly I may now have the answers I have been seeking all this time. Will definitely keep spreading the word. There is way to many people that could truly benefit from this. Read More Reviews.
The oldest haplogroups are from Africa.
According to paleontological records, Homo sapiens started migrating from Africa 60,000-70,000 years ago.
They moved to the Eurasian continent from Africa.
Some migrants reached the Indian coast through Southeast Asia.
They then moved to Australia around 50,000 years ago.
Since then, humans have followed different migratory routes and spread worldwide.
We can better understand and trace these migratory routes by defining the mutation in Y DNA and mtDNA.
Variations in the mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA determine maternal haplogroups.
You inherit your mitochondria from your mother.
Mitochondrial DNA does not recombine with other DNA since it is the only type of DNA found outside the nucleus.
Mitochondrial DNA remains mostly unchanged since it does not undergo recombination.
It means you will share the same haplogroup with your maternal relatives, such as your sister, maternal aunt, or maternal grandmother.
The maternal haplogroup traces back through the generations at a specific mutation at a particular time.
MtDNA is well conserved because it rarely undergoes recombination.
It has an intrinsic ability to resist degradation.
Also, mtDNA has a higher copy number than nuclear DNA.
Each cell contains 1000 mitochondria, with 2-10 copies of DNA per mitochondrion.
Thus, the amount of mtDNA available from a sample is quite large.
The variations in the Y chromosome determine the paternal haplogroup.
The Y chromosome is a sex-determining chromosome found only in males.
Men inherit this chromosome from their fathers.
The Y chromosome is a reflection of your ancient paternal ancestry.
The Y chromosome undergoes recombination with the X chromosome.
However, the recombination occurs only at the ends.
Thus, 95% of the Y chromosome remains mostly intact across generations and is well conserved.
Autosomal DNA undergoes mutations in each successive generation.
A large portion of your DNA is found within the autosomal DNA.
Analyzing your autosomal DNA will reveal your recent ancestry from the past five to ten generations.
On the other hand, haplogroups reflect ancient ancestral history.
Two people can share the same haplogroup but not share any recent ancestry.
Thus, testing for your haplogroup might show different results than assessing your autosomal DNA.
Both of them are correct.
The Y chromosome or the mitochondrial DNA can undergo small mutations.
These mutations are tested to identify haplogroups in a person.
Identifying the haplogroup will help determine your ancestral relatives on your father or mother's side.
A Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis can determine a person's haplogroup.
However, only a Y SNP test can confirm a person's haplogroup.
SNP or Single Nucleotide Polymorphism is a slight mutation occurring on a single DNA nucleotide.
These mutations occurred thousands of years ago and are passed down through generations.
Testing for SNPs in the Y chromosome can help us identify a person's haplogroup.
Since women don't have the Y chromosome, they can test their mtDNA to identify their haplogroup.
A male relative on her mother's side can be tested if a woman wants to identify her Y DNA haplogroup.
Not all people who share a haplogroup are genetic relatives.
It tells you about your direct paternal or maternal line ancestors.
Most of your genetic relatives will fall outside your haplogroup.
DNA mutations that define a haplogroup occur thousands of years ago.
Thus, most people who share the same haplogroup are not closely related.
Upload Your DNA data for 1000+ health & wellness insights
Haplogroups can reveal a lot about your ancestral history.
It can reveal the migration routes of your ancestors.
But more importantly, they are now associated with many common diseases, like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease.
Thus, knowing your haplogroup can help you understand whether you are predisposed to develop these diseases and take adequate precautions.
Haplogroups are a group of people that share a common ancestor on their paternal or maternal side.
Specifically, they share the same Y DNA or mtDNA.
The Y and mtDNA undergo minimal mutation when passed down through the generations.
They are largely conserved and remain unchanged for generations.
Identifying haplogroups can help us understand the early migration routes of humans out of Africa.
Haplogroups can also help us understand certain diseases found only within specific populations.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5793196/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC379119/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6562384/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9781455707379000321
