
<p>In honor of Irish American Heritage Month, we’ve added a new group to our Historical Matches<sup>SM</sup> feature that offers a glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past. This group, called the “Megalithic Society of Neolithic Ireland,” includes members of an elite society connected to Ireland’s megalithic tombs, which were built over 5,000 years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-we-know-about-the-ancient-farmers-who-built-ireland-s-megalithic-structures">What do we know about the ancient farmers who built Ireland’s megalithic structures?</h2>



<p>The Neolithic Period (7000–2000 BCE) was a time of profound transformation in Europe, as populations transitioned from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled farming communities. This era also saw the rise of megalithic architecture—monumental stone structures such as stone circles, dolmens, and passage tombs—built for both ceremonial and funerary purposes.</p>



<p>In Ireland, megalithic architecture first appeared around 4000 BCE, marking the beginning of a tradition that would shape the island’s landscape for millennia. While the enduring stone structures provide valuable insight into Neolithic craftsmanship and ritual practices, little was known about the ancestry, social organization, and kinship patterns of the people who built and used them—until now.</p>



<p>In 2020, researchers sequenced the genomes of 44 ancient individuals from sites across Ireland to better understand these early communities. What they discovered was unexpected.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-surprising-case-of-inbreeding-among-ireland-s-ancient-elite">The surprising case of inbreeding among Ireland’s ancient elite</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="600" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Newgrange_Si_an_Bhru_Monument_Donore_Eire_-_44753782680.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-33779" style="width:542px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Newgrange_Si_an_Bhru_Monument_Donore_Eire_-_44753782680.jpg 800w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Newgrange_Si_an_Bhru_Monument_Donore_Eire_-_44753782680-300x225.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Newgrange_Si_an_Bhru_Monument_Donore_Eire_-_44753782680-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Inside the Newgrange Passage Tomb</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>One of the most remarkable individuals in this study was a man buried inside Newgrange, one of Ireland’s most famous and elaborate passage tombs. Built around 3200 BCE, Newgrange consists of a massive circular mound surrounded by a stone ring. A narrow passageway leads to a cross-shaped inner chamber, which aligns with the rising sun during the Winter Solstice, flooding the tomb with light in a dramatic annual event—suggesting it had deep ceremonial significance.</p>



<p>When researchers analyzed this man’s genome, they found something highly unusual: extreme genetic similarity between the DNA he inherited from his mother and father—a telltale sign of close inbreeding. Their analysis indicated that his parents were either full siblings or a parent-child pair.</p>



<p>While such close inbreeding has been considered taboo in most societies, his elaborate burial suggests that his parentage was not only accepted but possibly even socially sanctioned. The researchers proposed that this could be an example of “royal” or “dynastic” incest, a rare practice historically used by ruling families—such as the Egyptian pharaohs—to maintain political power and prestige within a single bloodline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elite-burials-across-ireland-hint-at-an-ancient-dynasty">Elite burials across Ireland hint at an ancient dynasty</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="379" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-1024x379.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33780" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-1024x379.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-300x111.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-768x284.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-880x326.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607-1180x437.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-125607.png 1945w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Carrowmore (left) and Carrowkeel (right) megalithic tombs</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Further evidence of his elite status came from genetic links to several other high-status individuals buried in major passage tombs, including Carrowmore and Carrowkeel, located nearly 100 miles west of Newgrange. These connections suggest that a powerful, interconnected elite class may have existed in Neolithic Ireland, with its members buried in monumental tombs across the island—perhaps forming an early ruling dynasty.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h2>



<p>Want to find out if you share a distant connection to this elite lineage of Neolithic Ireland or to the many other non-elite individuals in this group? Explore the Historical Matches feature, available to<a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/"> 23andMe+ Premium™ members</a>, to see if your DNA links you to this ancient dynasty—or to hundreds of other historical individuals from the past.</p>


Newgrange prehistoric monument in County Meath, Ireland

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

New Historical Matches Could Connect You to an Elite Dynasty in Ancient Ireland


<p>From Nigerian to Cajun, County Cork to Tulu Nadu, 23andMe can now connect you to 4000+ geographic regions, ethnolinguistic groups, and cultural groups around the world. The most comprehensive ancestry breakdown on the market has been getting better and better.</p>



<p>23andMe&#8217;s Ancestry Composition gives you the power to peer deeper into your genetic origins, connect them to different populations around the world, and to learn more about yourself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-proportions">Ancestry Proportions</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="504" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-1024x504.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33261" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-1024x504.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-300x148.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-768x378.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-880x433.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10-1180x580.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ac45-methodology-map.27c9a9c9ba10.png 1700w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The backbone of Ancestry Composition is a breakdown of the percentage of your DNA linked to each of 47 populations. We calculate this by comparing your genome to more than 14,000 people with known ancestry. When a segment of your DNA closely matches the DNA from one of the 47 populations, we assign that ancestry to the corresponding segment of your DNA. By separately calculating the ancestry for each segment of your genome, we can compute your overall ancestry composition. This helps connect you to your ancestry back 500 years, before the advent of modern migration.</p>



<p>We&#8217;re always looking into new ways to make this breakdown more specific. Although your DNA doesn&#8217;t change, our interpretation of it does, which is why Ancestry Composition is a living analysis.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/"><em>Learn more in our Ancestry Composition Guide</em></a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-country-matches">Country Matches</h2>



<p>We can also add another layer of insights with clues to the locations of much more recent ancestors. By looking for exact DNA matches between you and individuals with known ancestry from specific countries or regions, we can provide a “Country Match”. Despite the name, these matches can also connect you to smaller administrative sub-regions within countries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-groups">Genetic Groups</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="488" height="651" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cajun-genetic-group-image.png" alt="An image showing a map of Louisiana and the Cajun Genetic Group." class="wp-image-33763" style="width:278px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cajun-genetic-group-image.png 488w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cajun-genetic-group-image-225x300.png 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /></figure>



<p>Finally, we can connect you through shared genetic ancestry to Genetic Groups. These are groups of people with significant genetic similarity to each other. These groups may share ethnic identities, languages, or other similar characteristics. Genetic Groups include ethnolinguistic groups like the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/african-ethnolinguistic-groups">Esan</a>, or cultural groups like <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia">Parsis in Western India</a>. Genetic Groups also include regional groups, such as <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">Albemarle Sound African Americans</a> or <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-french-german-us-canada">Halifax Region Early British/Irish Canadians</a>, and historical groups like <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/are-you-genetically-connected-to-early-colonial-americans">Mayflower Descendants</a>.<br></p>



<p><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium members</a> also receive access to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/discover-distant-genetic-groups-with-23andme-premium">Distant Genetic Groups</a>. “Distant” matches to Genetic Groups reflect meaningful DNA connections to Genetic Groups that may be further back in time, connections through fewer ancestors, or are otherwise harder to detect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">All paths lead to you</h2>



<p>In a world where migration and cultural exchanges shape our history, 23andMe’s Ancestry Composition is an unprecedented tool for connecting us with our past. By offering insights into more than 4,000 geographic regions, ethnolinguistic groups, and cultural identities, you can open a window into the complex tapestry of your genetic heritage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As we continue to refine this analysis, the journey into your ancestry can become richer and more detailed, providing an ever-evolving understanding of where you come from, and how your roots connect to the world.</p>


Stylistic map representing 23andMe Ancestry Composition with 4000+ regions and text "How rare are you? Find out with 4,000 regions"

The Best Just Got Better: 23andMe Connects You To 4,000+ Regions


<p>An update to our 23andMe Ancestry Service adds new granularity for people with connections to Eastern European and Finnish settlers in the U.S. We&#8217;ve also added new Amish and Mennonite Genetic Groups across North America, and Genetic Groups connecting customers to Northwestern Europeans in South Africa. From the Wends of Texas to European South Africans from the Bushveld region, even Canadian Doukhobors and Mennonites from the Prairies and Great Plains, this update can provide unique connections around the globe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With this latest update 23andMe can now connect customers on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, to 4000+ geographic regions, ethnolinguistic groups, and cultural groups around the world. <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium members</a> will also be able to see any distant Genetic Group connections they may have to these regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-composition-update">Ancestry Composition Update</h2>



<p>23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report is a living analysis that improves as we add new reference data. Underlying our Ancestry reports are powerful algorithms and analytical tools developed by 23andMe population geneticists and engineers to offer our customers more insights into their ancestral origins.</p>



<p>Recently, we’ve updated results for people with connections to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-french-german-us-canada">French and German Groups in North America</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia">South Asia</a>, Greece and the Balkans, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">African American Groups</a>, for instance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-find-out-more">Find out more</h2>



<p>If you are a 23andMe customer with the <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, V5, you can see your results in your Ancestry Composition report.</p>



<p>Curious if you’re connected? Discover 23andMe’s <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">Ancestry Service and more</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="876" height="491" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png" alt="Image of the 23andMe screen to view your ancestry report" class="wp-image-33661" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png 876w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-300x168.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 876px) 100vw, 876px" /></figure>



<p>Below are the Genetic Groups 23andMe has added as part of this update </p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Big Blue River Basin Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Big Blue River Basin Mennonites</li>



<li>Burleson County Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Bushveld European South Africans</li>



<li>Canadian Doukhobors</li>



<li>Central Great Plains Mennonites</li>



<li>Central Minnesota Early Finnish Americans</li>



<li>Early Czech Americans from Kewaunee and Manitowoc Counties</li>



<li>Early Czech Americans from Wharton and Fort Bend Counties</li>



<li>Early Polish Americans from Robertson and Harris Counties</li>



<li>Eastern Cape European South Africans</li>



<li>Ellis County Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Flint River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Greater Milwaukee Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Greater Winnipeg Mennonites</li>



<li>Highveld European South Africans</li>



<li>Houghton County Early Finnish Americans</li>



<li>Huron County Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Indiana Amish</li>



<li>Iron County Early Finnish Americans</li>



<li>Kashubian Canadians</li>



<li>Keweenaw Bay Early Finnish Americans</li>



<li>Lake Leelanau Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Lancaster County Amish</li>



<li>Lavaca County Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Lavaca River Basin Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Lower Delaware River Basin Mennonites</li>



<li>Lower Missouri River Basin Mennonites</li>



<li>Lower Platte River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Lower Susquehanna River Basin Mennonites</li>



<li>Marathon County Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Mennonites from the Red and Seine River Basins</li>



<li>Navidad River Basin Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Nebraska Till Plains Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Northeastern Michigan Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Northern Ohio Mennonites</li>



<li>Pembina Valley Mennonites</li>



<li>Peshtigo River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Pinnebog River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Portage County Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Saginaw Bay and Lake St. Clair Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>San Antonio River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>San Gabriel River Basin Early Czech Americans</li>



<li>Schuylkill River Basin Mennonites</li>



<li>Shawano County Early German Americans</li>



<li>Shenandoah Valley Mennonites</li>



<li>Somerset County Amish</li>



<li>Southern Great Lakes Mennonites</li>



<li>Southern Ontario Mennonites</li>



<li>The Prairies and Great Plains Mennonites</li>



<li>Upper Mississippi River Basin Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Upper Peninsula and Iron Range Early Finnish Americans</li>



<li>Vaal River Basin European South Africans</li>



<li>Wends of Texas</li>



<li>West Michigan Early Polish Americans</li>



<li>Western Cape European South Africans</li>



<li>Williamson County Early Czech Americans</li>
</ul>


Map depicting the location of Genetic Groups in North America and South Africa

European Diaspora Genetic Groups Update


<p>This Black History Month, we’re expanding our Historical Matches<sup>SM</sup> feature to include 16 new historical African and African American individuals from the U.S. and Mexico. Their genomes were sequenced as part of two powerful studies that demonstrate how ancient DNA can help shed light on the lives of individuals who were left out of the historical record.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-story-of-three-african-individuals-in-colonial-mexico">The Story of Three African Individuals in Colonial Mexico</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33704" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/african_colonial_mexico.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Three individuals were buried in a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32359431/">16th century mass grave in Mexico City</a>. Through ancient DNA and anthropological analysis, researchers identified them as first-generation Africans who were likely forcibly transported to Mexico as part of the transatlantic slave trade. Their DNA revealed close ties to present-day Central-Western African populations. Further analysis showed that one individual was infected with hepatitis B, while another may have suffered from yaws, a bacterial infection affecting the skin, bones, and joints.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-story-of-catoctin-furnace-ironworkers">The Story of Catoctin Furnace Ironworkers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33703" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/catoctin_furnace.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>We’ve also expanded the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37535739/">Catoctin Furnace Ironworkers</a> group, which now includes all 22 African Americans whose genomes were analyzed in our 2022 study where we introduced the technology that drives our Historical Matches feature, which is available to all 23andMe+ Premium members. In addition to the nine previously included individuals, we just added 13 more African Americans who were likely enslaved at the site. Their DNA isn’t as well preserved, meaning genetic matches to them should be interpreted with some caution. But we felt it was important to include them—to acknowledge their lives and their contributions to early American history.</p>



<p>We hope that these new updates to the Historical Matches feature highlight how ancient DNA can help us to restore the memory of individuals whose history may previously have been overlooked.</p>


Reclaiming Lost Connections: How Historical Matches Sheds Light on Forgotten Lives


<p>In the latest update to 23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report, we’ve added 50 new Genetic Groups in Canada, connecting customers to both early British/Irish settlers as well as early French settlers, and 170 new Genetic Groups in the US connecting customers to early German settlers, Cajuns, Pennsylvania Dutch, and other groups with French &amp; German ancestry.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="772" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-1024x772.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33699" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-1024x772.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-300x226.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-768x579.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-880x663.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada-1180x890.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/US_Canada.png 1369w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The update affects around 17 percent of all customers who tested on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, and even more <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium members</a> will see any distant Genetic Group connections they may have to these regions.</p>



<p>We previously released <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/are-you-genetically-connected-to-early-colonial-americans">early British &amp; Irish American Genetic Groups</a>, helping customers connect back many generations to communities within the United States. With this update we&#8217;ve expanded that to include early British &amp; Irish Canadian Genetic Groups, but also expanded our connections to additional European diasporas including early French and German settlers in the United States and Canada. These groups helped to shape these countries from French Canadians maintaining a distinct culture in Quebec to German Americans helping to establish many of Milwaukee&#8217;s famous breweries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-composition-update">Ancestry Composition Update</h2>



<p>23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report is a living analysis that improves as we add new reference data. Underlying our Ancestry reports are powerful algorithms and analytical tools developed by 23andMe population geneticists and engineers to offer our customers more insights into their ancestral origins.</p>



<p>Recently, we’ve updated results for people with connections to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia">South Asia</a>, Greece and the Balkans, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">African Americans</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia">Japan, and Scandinavia</a> for instance.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-find-out-more">Find out more</h2>



<p>Curious if you’re connected? Discover 23andMe’s<a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">&nbsp; Ancestry Service and more</a>.</p>



<p>If you are a 23andMe customer with the <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, V5, you can see your results in your Ancestry Composition report.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcKT5V7Zf1iux5cZ63RxhzIaXbqU3gSpE8NjEdPTE6aozWvpbjmJ4N3seGlflVg0xFIlJsWlxoOIgq50D5Vs_9uwf8okOu9MeM6pZs1PPnNyGgkQ1Jv7Wnliyoiu7jb9oYXJ5IFEA?key=lvfyoxTzJk20aNZDmzWJYMYf" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Below are the lists of Genetic Groups 23andMe has added as part of this update</p>



<p>New Genetic Groups in the United States&nbsp;</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Cajun</li>



<li>Pennsylvania Dutch</li>



<li>Great Plains Early German Americans</li>



<li>Lower Missouri River Basin Early German Americans</li>



<li>Lower Ohio River Basin Early German Americans</li>



<li>North Central Appalachians and Ohio Valley Early German Americans</li>



<li>Southeastern Early German Americans</li>



<li>Southern Great Lakes Early German Americans</li>



<li>Upper Midwest Early German Americans</li>



<li>Upper Mississippi River Basin Early German Americans</li>



<li>Upper Missouri River Basin Early German Americans</li>



<li>Wisconsin River Basin Early German Americans</li>



<li><strong>Plus 158 more local Genetic Groups connected to those with German and French ancestry in the U.S.</strong></li>
</ul>



<p>New Genetic Groups in Canada</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>French Canadian</li>



<li>Acadia</li>



<li>Annapolis Valley Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Atlantic Canada Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Bonavista Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Bras d&#8217;Or Lake Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Cape Breton County Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Eastern Conception Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Eastern Northumberland Strait Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Eastern Prince Edward Island Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Georgian Bay and North Channel Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Halifax Region Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Inverness County Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Kawartha Lakes Region Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lake Erie Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lake Huron Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lake Ontario Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lake Simcoe Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lake St. Clair Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Long Range Mountains Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Lower Ottawa River Basin Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Manitoulin Island Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Maritime Provinces Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Miramichi Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Mississippi-Rideau River Basin Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>New Brunswick Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Newfoundland South Coast Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>North Shore Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Northeastern Lake Erie Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Northeastern Lake Ontario Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Northern Avalon Peninsula Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Notre Dame Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Nottawasaga Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Nova Scotia Peninsula Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Prince Edward Island Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Saint John and the Fundy Shore Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Saint John River Valley Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Southeast Region Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Southern Avalon Peninsula Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Southern Nova Scotia Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Southwest Miramichi River Valley Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>St. Georges Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>St. Lawrence River Basin Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Trinity Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Western Conception Bay Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Western Prince Edward Island Early British/Irish Canadians</li>



<li>Greater Montreal Early French Canadians</li>



<li>Greater Quebec City Early French Canadians</li>



<li>Notre Dame Mountains Early French Canadians</li>



<li>Saguenay-St. Lawrence River Basin Early French Canadians</li>
</ul>


An image of a traditional masts ship like the Mayflower.

More Detailed Genetic Groups in the US and Canada


<p>As we <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/dna-testing-african-ancestry-health-research-23andme">said last week</a> 23andMe offers some of the most detailed and comprehensive ancestry insights for people of African descent. This is possible because 23andMe has the largest genetic cohort of research participants with African ancestry in the world, and we prioritize diversification through efforts like the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/global-genetics/">Global Genetics Project</a>, and previous projects like the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/africa-project/">African Genetics Project</a> and the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/african-american-sequencing-project">African American Sequencing Project</a>. That focus on diversity and the contribution of many 23andMe research participants over more than a decade, has unlocked key discoveries and enabled our team to provide the most ancestry detail in Africa and the most detail for the African diaspora of any DNA testing company.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-composition-tracing-roots-in-africa">Ancestry Composition: Tracing Roots in Africa</h2>



<p>As a result of the brutal <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/transatlantic-slave-trade-paper">transatlantic slave trade</a> many Black Americans are disconnected from their ancestral homelands. Discovering <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/learning-about-yourself-with-23andme">genetic connections to regions in Africa</a> can offer <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-helps-customer-connect-to-west-africa">powerful hints to your earlier ancestry</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>23andMe offers 12 broad <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-african-east-asian-details">reference populations</a> in Africa for your Ancestry Composition breakdown and over 150 detailed African regions pinpointed to the country or state level.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AC-33-Africa.001.jpg" alt="Image of a sample ancestry dna result showing Sub-Saharan African regions on 23andme" class="wp-image-26486" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AC-33-Africa.001.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AC-33-Africa.001-300x225.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AC-33-Africa.001-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AC-33-Africa.001-880x660.jpg 880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Additionally, you may find matches to 25 African <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/african-ethnolinguistic-groups">ethnolinguistic groups</a> and tribes in Africa, including matches to groups such as the Yoruba, Igbo, Kongo, Mende, Kikuyu, and Zulu peoples</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfNmZtHJrxCGL_ObwaB0JM2G_tecZt5uBOLkki1aAmAYlij5u1cBZEAZJxx9ChGxkQ30-B7I6kHRcP28DeEbrFDLzrN2urhZ93L6u5V41uc1mLZjCf1b5VbNMXrDDcoKtKHKUY?key=Opm82dkXgXhyK_OGIrF9GbZI" alt="" style="width:500px"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-connections-in-america">Keeping Connections in America</h2>



<p>During the Great Migration, more than six million Black Americans left the South in search of economic opportunities and a reprieve from the repression of Jim Crow laws and racial violence. Via shared genetics we are able to help you identify and maintain these pre-migration connections to more than <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">200 African American Genetic Groups</a> in the United States, such as Virginia Tidewater, Southern Plains African Americans, Pee Dee River Gullah, and Avoyelles Parish Creoles.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center" style="font-size:0.9rem"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/working-on-23andmes-african-american-genetic-groups-project"><em>Learn more about Jalen Robinson, a student at Morehouse School of Medicine and Research Diversity intern at 23andMe, who helped develop the African American Genetic Groups</em></a></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcjxnbrI7BxLOwtJc8fpV4-TEzSZMiPUeWjEYRz4IE-KAeHegYIW6SryPaUXUkeV5WlrziiaQIzCE8XCTKqgHTFwfynjuoHazjtNdXmncMyc1qZ2xLGyn-0Z0kqTvqc2AHlT5dL?key=Opm82dkXgXhyK_OGIrF9GbZI" alt="" style="width:500px"/></figure>



<p>We are also able to identify connections to&nbsp; <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-adds-more-detail-for-afro-caribbean-ancestry">19 Afro-Caribbean Genetic Groups</a>, including Jamaican, Afro-Puerto Rican, Afro-Dominican, Garifuna, St. Lucian and more.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haplogroups">Haplogroups</h2>



<p>Moving further back into your history, 23andMe “haplogroup” reports reveal clues about the ancient origins of your maternal and paternal lines. A genetic signature of your maternal line can be traced back through time by analyzing a small circular loop of DNA housed in your cells’ mitochondria—your mitochondrial DNA—which you inherited from your mother, who inherited it from her mother, and so on. Similarly, your paternal line can be traced by analyzing your Y chromosome DNA if you are male, or by connecting with a close paternal male relative who also tested on 23andMe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Haplogroups can be linked to geographic regions and historical populations, showing how your ancestors moved and settled over tens of thousands of years. Looking at the haplogroup family tree of all humans is one way that scientists were able to determine that modern humans originated within Africa.</p>



<p>Here is an example of where the maternal lineage (or <a href="https://discover.23andme.com/haplogroup/L1-maternal">mitochondrial haplogroup) known as L1&nbsp; linked to speakers of the Bantu language family in Sub-Saharan Africa.</a></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="249" height="245" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/L1_image-e1739299538780.png" alt="Image of L1 haplogroup migration patterns in sub-sarharan Africa" class="wp-image-33689" style="width:500px"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-matches">Historical Matches</h2>



<p>In early 2024, 23andMe introduced an exciting feature, powered by groundbreaking research, called Historical Matches<sup>SM</sup> that connects 23andMe+ Premium members to historical and ancient DNA relatives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Scientists have sequenced the genomes of many ancient and historical individuals from around the world. Now, using custom, peer-reviewed methods developed by 23andMe scientists in partnership with leading ancient DNA experts, we can identify sections of your DNA that you share with these people who lived long ago.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This feature includes historical and ancient profiles from West Africa, Southern Africa, and East Africa, as well as individuals of African descent buried at <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/historical-dna-connection-to-early-enslaved-and-free-african-americans">Catoctin Iron Furnace</a> in Maryland in the 17th and 18th centuries. More profiles of historical and ancient individuals are added over time.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="720" height="719" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33692" style="width:500px" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image.png 720w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image-300x300.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image-271x271.png 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image-372x372.png 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/image-574x574.png 574w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></figure>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-connects-living-family-to-enslaved-african-american-from-historic-site"><em>Read about living relatives finding their connection to Catoctin Iron Furnace&nbsp;</em></a></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-relatives">DNA relatives</h3>



<p>Genetic information can also connect you to more recent history, if you choose, by allowing you to find and connect to your DNA relatives. Many people have been able to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/thomas-finds-family-and-then-his-valentine">connect with newfound family</a> helping to complete a picture of their recent family history.</p>



<p>However, we recognize not everyone is interested in making these connections, which is why we give you full control to decide how your information is used and with whom it is shared. You must explicitly opt in to participate in the DNA Relatives feature. We will not share your genetic data without your explicit consent.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-a-rich-tapestry-of-ancestry">Discovering a Rich Tapestry of Ancestry</h2>



<p>23andMe offers a comprehensive and powerful toolkit for exploring your African ancestry, from deep genetic connections to specific regions and ethnic groups, to uncovering ancient lineages and historical matches. Whether you’re tracing your roots to the African continent or connecting with recent relatives, our data and research innovations give you an unparalleled view into your heritage. By prioritizing diversity and expanding our genetic research, we’re committed to helping you rediscover and reconnect with your history, no matter how far back it stretches.</p>


Image of a sample ancestry dna result showing Sub-Saharan African regions on 23andme

Uncovering African Ancestry: A Deep Dive into Your Roots with 23andMe


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-black-history-month-with-ancestry-health-and-research">Celebrating Black History Month with Ancestry, Health, and Research</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="724" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-1024x724.png" alt="A map showing all the African American Genetic Groups" class="wp-image-33413" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-300x212.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-768x543.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-880x622.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7-1180x834.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/211ea60f-83a4-473b-85d4-008430a36ed7.png 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>As we kick off this Black History Month, it&#8217;s a powerful time to reflect on how science and technology can deepen our understanding of ancestry, improve health outcomes, and empower communities. Over the years, 23andMe has made an effort to ensure our product and research are relevant to those of African descent and we continue to make improvements in both what we deliver to our Black and African American customers and how we engage with those communities. Let&#8217;s take a look at how DNA testing can provide a deeper connection to your ancestral history, empower you with knowledge about health risks that disproportionately affect the Black and African American communities, and offer new opportunities for scientific research.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-uncovering-african-heritage-with-23andme">Ancestry: Uncovering African Heritage with 23andMe</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-groups-across-africa-and-the-americas"><strong>Genetic Groups Across Africa and the Americas</strong></h3>



<p>23andMe offers some of the most detailed and comprehensive ancestry insights for people of African descent, helping you trace your roots back to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/african-ethnolinguistic-groups">African ethnolinguistic groups</a> like the Yoruba, Igbo, Kongo, Mende, Kikuyu, and more. We also offer the ability to pinpoint over 150 regions across Africa, down to the country and even more local levels.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="627" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-1024x627.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33675" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-1024x627.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-300x184.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-768x471.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-880x539.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic-1180x723.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Kongo_Mbundu_african_ethnolinguistic.png 1234w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>In the Americas the service also highlights over <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">200 Genetic Groups</a>, including those tied to the Gullah, Creole, and other communities in the United States as well as 19 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-adds-more-detail-for-afro-caribbean-ancestry">Afro-Caribbean Genetic Groups</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="605" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-1024x605.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33676" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-1024x605.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-300x177.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-768x454.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-880x520.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican-1180x697.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/afro-puerto_rican.png 1229w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-maternal-and-paternal-lineages"><strong>Tracing Maternal and Paternal Lineages</strong></h3>



<p>Additionally, 23andMe is the only leading DNA testing service that offers detailed information on both your maternal and paternal lineages through haplogroups, connecting you with ancient peoples and places. You can even learn if you share an ancient maternal line ancestor with famous historical figures such as Nelson Mandela, Pharaoh Rameses III of Egypt, and more.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-empowering-communities-with-genetic-insights">Health: Empowering Communities with Genetic Insights</h2>



<p>Health is a critical area where genetic testing can make a real difference, and 23andMe is committed to providing reports of value to Black and African American communities. We offer over 110 health reports, many of which focus on conditions that, while they can affect anyone, disproportionately affect these communities.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-key-health-reports-for-black-and-african-american-communities"><strong>Some Key Health Reports for Black and African American Communities</strong></h3>



<p>These are just some of the reports that provide personalized insights based on your DNA.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/sickle-cell-anemia">Sickle Cell Anemia Carrier Status report</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/chronic-kidney-disease/">Chronic Kidney Disease (APOL1-Related) Genetic Health Risk report</a> </li>



<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/preeclampsia/">Preeclampsia Polygenic Risk Score report</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/type-2-diabetes/">Type 2 Diabetes Polygenic Risk Score report</a> </li>
</ul>



<p>With this knowledge, you can take steps to manage your health more effectively. Personalized suggestions offer tools to help you prevent, monitor, or manage these health risks, ensuring that you’re not only aware of potential issues but also equipped to take control of your well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-advancing-health-equity-through-participation">Research: Advancing Health Equity Through Participation</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-disparities-in-genetic-research"><strong>Addressing Disparities in Genetic Research</strong></h3>



<p>23andMe is proactively building a more representative community of researchers and participants to improve research equity and health outcomes for Black Americans. There are several initiatives that focus on diseases that disproportionately impact people of African descent:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-initiatives-within-the-black-community"><strong>Key Initiatives Within the Black Community</strong></h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/sickle-cell/"><strong>Sickle Cell Carrier Status Awareness</strong></a><strong> — </strong>In collaboration with various academic and advocacy organizations—including <a href="https://www.sicklecellga.org/">Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia</a>, <a href="https://www.btsscycle.org/">Breaking the SSickle Cell Cycle</a>, and <a href="https://www.msm.edu/">Morehouse School of Medicine</a>— this program empowers people to learn their sickle cell carrier status, promotes sickle cell disease awareness, and offers resources to those with sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease.</li>



<li><strong>Research on Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) </strong>— A <a href="https://ashpublications.org/bloodadvances/article/8/21/5710/517723/Ancestry-independent-risk-of-venous">collaborative study</a> with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, published in <em>Blood Advances</em> and involving 4 million research participants, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-research-on-sickle-cell-trait">revealed</a> that sickle cell trait (SCT) increases the risk of pulmonary embolism but not deep vein thrombosis. This suggests a unique clotting mechanism in SCT individuals. The findings, consistent across genetic backgrounds, may improve medical advice. We are now investigating SCT&#8217;s potential link to blood clots during pregnancy.</li>



<li><strong>Representation in Sarcoidosis Research Study — </strong>Helped increase the likelihood that potential sarcoidosis treatments can be effective in people with African ancestry, and other underrepresented groups, in partnership with the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research and the Bernie Mac Foundation.</li>



<li><strong>BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Report Updates — </strong>Bringing awareness and access to our updated report, which now accounts for 30-40% of cancer-related BRCA1/BRCA2 variants in African Americans, in collaboration with AfroPink®.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.23andme.com/genetic-insights-into-colorectal-cancer-black-community/"><strong>Genetic Insights into Colorectal Cancer in the Black Community</strong></a><strong> — </strong>A study aimed at<strong> </strong>bringing our Black and African American customers a genetic report on their chances of developing colorectal cancer in partnership with the <a href="https://colorectalcancer.org/">Colorectal Cancer Alliance</a>.<strong>  </strong></li>
</ul>



<p>These efforts are about more than just furthering research; they’re about making sure we build long-term, ongoing partnerships within Black community to improve access to genetic health information, participation in genetics research, and improve overall health outcomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-on-progress">Building on Progress</h2>



<p>Throughout this Black History Month, we&#8217;ll return to dive deeper and celebrate the ancestry, health, and research work being done at 23andMe that impacts people of African descent. We’ll take a deeper dive into heritage, taking proactive steps towards better health, or contributing to groundbreaking research that can improve outcomes for generations to come.</p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p><em>The 23andMe PGS test includes health predisposition and carrier status reports. Health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports which are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks and reporting carrier status. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. Our carrier status reports can be used to determine carrier status, but cannot determine if you have two copies of any genetic variant. These carrier reports are not intended to tell you anything about your risk for developing a disease in the future, the health of your fetus, or your newborn child&#8217;s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. For certain conditions, we provide a single report that includes information on both carrier status and genetic health risk. Warnings &amp; Limitations: The 23andMe PGS Genetic Health Risk Report for BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) is indicated for reporting of 44 variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The report describes if a person&#8217;s genetic result is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer and may be associated with an increased risk for prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and potentially other cancers. The variants included in this report do not represent the majority of the BRCA1/BRCA2 variants in people of most ethnicities. This report does not include variants in other genes linked to hereditary cancers and the absence of variants included in this report does not rule out the presence of other genetic variants that may impact cancer risk. This report is for over-the-counter use by adults over the age of 18, and provides genetic information to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional for recommended screenings or appropriate follow-up. Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk and carrier status report, visit </em><a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/"><em>23andme.com/test-info/</em></a></p>


An image to represent African Americans participating in 23andMe's colorectal cancer research.

An Ongoing Commitment: The Power of DNA Testing for the African Diaspora


<p>In the latest update to 23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report, we’ve added finer detail for customers with South Asian ancestry, allowing them to trace their family connections back to 44 genetic groups corresponding to regions within India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Afghanistan.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="724" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1024x724.png" alt="Image showing the genetic groups in South Asia included in the 23andMe update" class="wp-image-33660" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-300x212.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-768x543.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-880x622.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1180x834.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The update affects the majority of customers with South Asian ancestry, and over one percent of all customers who tested on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>.</p>



<p>South Asia is the most populous region in the world and also very diverse, home to several hundred languages and various different religious and cultural practices. Now, in addition to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/central-and-south-asia">six Ancestry Composition populations</a> in South Asia, customers can see if they are connected via shared ancestors to some of the diverse groups in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-composition-update">Ancestry Composition Update</h2>



<p>23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report is a living analysis that improves as we add new reference data. Underlying our Ancestry reports are powerful algorithms and analytical tools developed by 23andMe population geneticists and engineers to offer our customers more insights into their ancestral origins.</p>



<p>Recently, we’ve updated results for people with connections to Greece and the Balkans, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/are-you-genetically-connected-to-early-colonial-americans">early colonial Americans</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">African Americans</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia">Japan, and Scandinavia</a> for instance.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-find-out-more">Find out more</h2>



<p>If you are a 23andMe customer with the <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, V5, you see your Ancestry Composition in your report.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="876" height="491" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png" alt="Image of the 23andMe screen to view your ancestry report" class="wp-image-33661" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png 876w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-300x168.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 876px) 100vw, 876px" /></figure>



<p>Curious if you’re connected? Discover 23andMe’s<a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">&nbsp; Ancestry Service and more</a>.</p>



<p>Below are the lists of Genetic Groups 23andMe has added as part of this update&nbsp;</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Bengal Basin</li>



<li>Central Deccan Plateau</li>



<li>Central Himalayan Foothills</li>



<li>Chettinad</li>



<li>Coromandel Coast</li>



<li>Doaba</li>



<li>Ganges-Yamuna Doab</li>



<li>Goa and Kanara</li>



<li>Jhelum and Chenab River Basins</li>



<li>Karnataka Plateau and Andhra Plains</li>



<li>Kashmir</li>



<li>Kathiawar Peninsula</li>



<li>Kerala Plains</li>



<li>Khyber Pass</li>



<li>Konkan Coast</li>



<li>Krishna and Godavari Deltas</li>



<li>Kutch Peninsula</li>



<li>Lower Indus River Valley</li>



<li>Lower Narmada River Basin&nbsp;</li>



<li>Lower Tapti River Basin</li>



<li>Majha</li>



<li>Malabar Coast</li>



<li>Malwa Plains</li>



<li>North Gujarat Plains</li>



<li>North Sahyadri</li>



<li>Northeast Sri Lankan Coast</li>



<li>Northern Deccan Plateau and Middle Ganga Plain</li>



<li>Northern Kerala Backwaters</li>



<li>Northern Tamilnad Plains</li>



<li>Parsis in Western India</li>



<li>Punjab Plains</li>



<li>Rachna Doab</li>



<li>Sindh Sagar Doab&nbsp;</li>



<li>South Gujarat Plains</li>



<li>Southern Tamilnad Plains</li>



<li>Southwestern Coastal Plains</li>



<li>Southwestern Sri Lanka</li>



<li>Surma-Meghna River Basin</li>



<li>Tamilnad Uplands</li>



<li>Telengana Plateau</li>



<li>Tulu Nadu</li>



<li>Upper Kaveri River Basin</li>



<li>Upper Krishna and Tungabhadra Rivers</li>



<li>Western Himalayan Foothills</li>
</ul>


23andMe Adds More Detail for South Asian Ancestry


<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-new-moon-on-january-29th-ushers-in-the-chinese-new-year-symbolizing-the-end-of-winter-and-the-arrival-of-spring-in-china-to-celebrate-we-have-added-56-new-individuals-from-three-recent-studies-of-ancient-china-to-the-historical-matches-tm-feature-a-23andme-premium-membership-feature">The New Moon on January 29th ushers in the Chinese New Year, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of spring in China. To celebrate, we have added 56 new individuals from three recent studies of ancient China to the Historical Matches<sup>TM</sup> feature, a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium<sup><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">® </a></sup>  membership </a>feature. </h5>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genomic-transformations-in-shandong-province-throughout-time"><strong>Genomic Transformations in Shandong Province Throughout Time</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1024x576.png" alt="Photograph of city from Shandong Dynasty" class="wp-image-33655" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shandong Dynasty city</figcaption></figure>



<p>Two of the newly added studies focus on the ancient inhabitants of Shandong Province, located in the easternmost reaches of the Yellow River Basin. This region is considered a cradle of ancient Chinese civilization, partly due to its role in the independent domestication of millet during the Neolithic Houli Period (circa 6500 – 5500 BCE). Around 4,000 years ago, Shandong transitioned into its dynastic era with the establishment of the legendary Xia dynasty (circa 2070 – 1600 BCE).</p>



<p>In 2024, researchers published two genetic studies on the ancient inhabitants of Shandong Province to better understand the demographic shifts in the region over the past 6,000 years. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39146937/">The first study</a> analyzed the genomes of 69 individuals who lived in the region between the Late Neolithic period (circa 5,500 BCE) and the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009303/">The second study</a> focused on 21 individuals who lived in Shandong between the Warring States Period (475 – 221 BCE) and the Jin (1115 – 1234 CE) and Yuan (1271 – 1368 CE) Dynasties.<br><br>These studies revealed that during the Dawenkou period (c. 4300 – 2500 BCE), populations related to Yellow River farmers from Central China (who themselves had some Southern Chinese-related ancestry) migrated to Shandong and intermingled with local groups. Later, during the Shang (c. 1600 – 1046 BCE) and Zhou (c. 1046 – 256 BCE) Dynasties, the region experienced an additional influx of ancestry from populations from the Central Plains. By the Han Dynasty, the ancestry of Shandong&#8217;s inhabitants began to resemble that of the present-day inhabitants of the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ancient-city-of-chang-an-during-the-tang-dynasty"><strong>The Ancient City of Chang’an During the Tang Dynasty</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1024x576.png" alt="Photo of the ancient city of Changan from the Tang Dynasty." class="wp-image-33654" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ancient city of Changan from the Tang dynasty</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39567925/">The third study</a> we are featuring this month investigates the genetic impact of long distance trade along the Silk Road on the inhabitants of the ancient city of Chang’an (now known as Xi’an). Located at the eastern end of the Silk Road, Chang’an was one of the most influential cities in ancient China’s history. As the capital of several prominent dynasties, including the Qin (221 – 206 BCE), Western Han (206 BCE – 9 CE), and Tang (618 – 907 CE) Dynasties, Chang’an served as a political and cultural hub. Its key position at the end of the Silk Road meant that Chang’an played a central role in facilitating trade and the exchange of ideas between China, Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe. During the Tang dynasty, the city flourished, reaching a population of over one million at its peak</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h2>



<p>You can learn more about these chapters in ancient China’s history and discover whether you share distant genetic connections with the newly added historical individuals from ancient China—or with hundreds of other historical individuals—through the Historical Matches<sup>TM</sup> feature, available with our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+® Premium membership</a>.</p>


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