(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) TWIGSTATS: FINDING GENETIC ANCESTRY

(FEBRUARY-2025)

TWIGSTATS: FINDING GENETIC ANCESTRY

In a recent study published in Nature journal, the researchers used twigstats to determine more precise individual-level ancestry at very high resolution.

What are Twigstats?

Twigstats method is one of the most exciting developments in genetic research, pioneered by a collaboration led by the Francis Crick Institute.
Twigstats employs time-stratified ancestry analysis, which enhances statistical power and reduces errors.
Twigstats uses R and C++ language to analyse genetic data and derive ancestry.
This innovative approach has been tested on simulated genetic conditions and applied to ancient DNA samples from northern and central Europe, yielding unprecedented detail about genetic histories.
Using Twigstats, researchers reconstructed the genetic history of 1,556 ancient DNA samples spanning from 500 BC to 1000 AD.
The results have provided high-resolution data about individual ancestries and population movements during key historical periods.

Genetic Ancestry

Prehistoric human ceremonial burials, mass grave mounds, and war graves scattered around the world are a treasure trove of ancient genetic material that scientists consider key to unlocking secrets from our past.
The ancient DNA (aDNA) at these sites opens windows into population dynamics, including the expansion and replacement of populations using peaceful, natural, or violent means, admixture events involving two or more sub-populations, cultural transitions, migrations for hunting and wealth at individual, local, and global scales.

Traditional Techniques for Genetic Analysis

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are used to identify variations in a DNA sequence where one nucleotide (A, C, G, or T) differs across people at certain points. It is commonly used to build an ancestry model from ancient genetic material.
Haplotypes method: Haplotypes method involves study of combinations of genetic markers that are inherited on the same chromosome. This method aids researchers in their understanding of population genetics and disease trends.
Genealogical Tree Inference: By creating family trees or genealogical trees, this technique traces an individual’s ancestry and genetic links. In order to comprehend population structure and demographic shifts, it examines both contemporary and ancient genomes.