Genetic genealogy uses DNA markers to trace family trees. Tests can be purchased from companies like Family Tree DNA to identify common ancestors and heritage. The Genographic Project aims to map human migration patterns and indigenous markers.
Genetic genealogy applies science to traditional genealogy. While genealogy work has been made easier with computers and microfilm, it used to be hours of tedious searching through stacks of records and records. When a genealogist hit an impasse, there was nowhere else to turn. Now, with the help of genetic genealogy, researchers have a way to trace their family tree by linking markers in their deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). A genetic marker is an easily identifiable sequence in a person’s DNA.
Genetic genealogy experts say that virtually 100% of everyone living today is descended from someone royal. An astonishing 80% of Britain’s current population are descendants of Edward III. With genetic genealogy, simple “ordinary people” have the ability to connect this interesting heritage with their own family trees.
On the genealogist’s side, the process is simple. A company like Family Tree DNA sells the subject a Y-DNA test, which traces the paternal line, or an mtDNA test, which traces the maternal line. The genetic genealogy test consists of a simple scrape of the cheek, from which the DNA is extracted. A scientist can then identify certain markers to help determine the likelihood that certain people share a common ancestor.
Genetic genealogy tests, which range from 129 to 289 US dollars (USD) can give a very varied range of results. The tests are available in 12, 25 or 37 marker tests, the 37 marker test being the most accurate. This test can determine a common ancestor up to 29 generations back. The results are collected in a database to help link family trees, although they are kept very confidential.
Family Tree DNA has a family tree based on last name and can help individuals identify a family’s Native American ancestry, Jewish ancestry, and immigration pattern. The test can also identify people with the same markings that define the family of Aaron, a Bible character.
The Genographic Project, which is a collaboration between National Geographic magazine, IBM, the Waitt Family Foundation and Family Tree DNA, is creating a map of how humans spread and populated continents from a commonplace in Africa. The project’s goal is to identify markers of indigenous peoples by testing the local population and performing tests on DNA extracted from ancient remains. Since the test subjects remained in a particular place, it is clear that they will have the oldest genetic markers in their DNA. Once the markers have been identified, audiences from around the world can participate. Subsequent results will show how the markers have been transported around the world.
To participate, those interested in genetic genealogy, or “deep ancestry” as this is called, can purchase a Genographic Project Public Participation Test for $100. Not only does it help the worldwide effort, but it will give the participant a personalized account of their family’s migration history. Genetic genealogy can be used for a simple purpose like establishing a link between two suspected cousins to compile family trees, or it can help identify how your deep ancestry got you to where you are today.
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