Lecture Notes: Distribution of Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroup H in Southern Iberia
Background
- Haplogroup H exhibits differences across the Mediterranean and between northern and southern regions.
- Western Mediterranean populations have high frequencies of haplogroup H.
- Study aims to explore ancient migrations and genetic exchanges between Iberia and North Africa.
Study Design
- Sample: 750 individuals from Huelva and Granada in Southern Iberia.
- Methods: High-resolution analysis of haplogroup H via sequencing and SNP screening.
- Comparison: Results compared with other Mediterranean populations including Iberia and Maghreb.
Key Findings
Genetic Structure and Diversity
- Andalusian subpopulations have a typical Western European haplogroup H profile.
- Eastern Andalusians from Granada show traces of Eastern Mediterranean influences.
- Haplogroups H1 and H3 are prevalent, indicating ancient connections.
Phylogeographic Analysis
- Haplotypes shared more frequently between Andalusia and Morocco.
- Strait of Gibraltar was not a barrier; instead, a route for ancient migrations.
- Spatial structure observed across the Mediterranean, decreasing eastward.
Population Comparisons
- Western and Eastern Mediterranean populations show significant genetic differences.
- Iberian Peninsula acts as both a genetic sink and source between Africa and Europe.
Phylogenetic and Statistical Analysis
- Use of hierarchical cluster analysis and AMOVA to assess population structure.
- Haplogroup H indicates post-glacial expansions from Iberian refuges.
Implications
- Ancient migrations likely occurred using maritime routes across the Mediterranean.
- Genetic data supports archaeological evidence of prehistoric connections between Iberia and Africa.
Methods Summary
- Samples sourced from volunteer donors with informed consent.
- Analysis included sequencing and genotyping of specific SNPs.
- Data compared to a comprehensive dataset of Mediterranean populations.
Conclusion
- Western Mediterranean was an active zone for genetic exchange.
- The study reinforces the significance of maritime connectivity in prehistoric times.
Additional Information
- Data included in the study is open access and available in GenBank.
- Research was ethically approved with participant consent.
These notes provide an overview of the key points and findings discussed in the lecture on the distribution of mitochondrial DNA haplogroup H in Southern Iberia, highlighting the genetic exchanges along the western Mediterranean.