Analysis of the human Y-chromosome haplogroup Q characterizes ancient population movements in Eurasia and the Americas

AI interpretationAI-generated

Y haplogroup Q reveals ancient migrations across Eurasia and the Americas.

This study analyzed 152 Y chromosomes, including 34 newly sequenced, to trace the spread of haplogroup Q. It supports a coastal and inland route for the first peopling of North America. A major male population growth occurred after 15,000 years ago, followed by stability from 8,000 to 3,000 years ago, then a secondary growth. The data suggest an entry into South America before 15,000 years ago, with later local expansions linked to cultural changes.

• A major phase of male population growth in the Americas began after 15,000 years ago.
• Population size remained constant from 8,000 to 3,000 years ago, followed by a secondary growth signal.
• Haplogroup Q-Z780 indicates an entrance into South America prior to 15,000 years ago.

Sample interpretation

The study analyzed 34 Y chromosomes, resolving all to haplogroup Q. The most common subclade was Q-CTS2730 (3 samples), followed by several with 2 samples each: Q-Y128398, Q-FT317594, Q-BZ1285, Q-Z19528, Q-M3, and Q-TY103789. One sample belonged to Q-BY185054. Samples came from various sites, including seven from ERS3023298 and ERS3023299, five from ERS3023293, and two each from Mongolia and Iran.

For genealogy enthusiasts

For ancestry enthusiasts, this study provides a detailed phylogeny of haplogroup Q, helping trace paternal lineages across Eurasia and the Americas. It highlights key expansion timings and suggests that South American population growth was driven by multiple cultural changes, offering a framework for interpreting your own Y-DNA results.