Ancient genomes reveal Basal Asian ancestries and dynamic population interactions over time on the southern Tibetan Plateau

AI interpretationAI-generated

Ancient DNA from 16 Mabu Co individuals reveals Basal Asian roots on the southern Tibetan Plateau.

Researchers sequenced 16 ancient genomes from the Mabu Co site in Shigatse, Tibet, dating to 4400-3500 BP. These genomes show Basal Asian ancestries and dynamic population interactions over time. The study adds crucial genetic data from the southern plateau, helping trace how early Tibetans formed and moved.

• 16 new genomes from Mabu Co span 4400-3500 BP, filling a gap in southern Tibetan prehistory.
• Y lineages include O-MF10037 (3), C-CTS10923 (2), and others like O-F20067, O-Z25915, O-CTS5308, D-PH1199.
• Mitochondrial DNA shows M9a1b1 (3), F1g (2), A-a1 (2), plus G2a1, D5a3a, G3b, indicating diverse maternal roots.

Sample interpretation

Of 16 samples, 9 had resolvable Y haplogroups. The most common Y was O-MF10037 (3), followed by C-CTS10923 (2). Others appeared once each. MtDNA was more diverse: M9a1b1 (3), F1g (2), A-a1 (2), and singletons G2a1, D5a3a, G3b. This mix suggests both local continuity and outside connections.

For genealogy enthusiasts

For ancestry fans, this study shows southern Tibet was a melting pot of Basal Asian and other lineages. If you carry O-MF10037, C-CTS10923, M9a1b1, or F1g, your deep roots may link to ancient Mabu Co people.