
<p>We often hear about the &#8220;nature versus nurture&#8221; debate, framing it as a battle between our genes and our environment. But in many cases it&#8217;s not a battle at all, it&#8217;s a partnership. The way our genes impact our health and traits may change depending on our environment.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30209" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/GettyImages-981323210-1180x788.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Understanding both &#8220;nature&#8221; and &#8220;nurture&#8221; is especially important when we consider complex skills critical to success in life, like reading. Thanks to the contribution of over a million 23andMe<sup>®</sup> research participants, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40991152/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new study</a>, led by scientists from the University of Edinburgh, is helping to untangle how both genes and environment work to shape literacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reading-puzzle-nbsp">The Reading Puzzle&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Literacy is a powerful predictor of life outcomes, from education level to income. For decades, researchers have tried to understand the roles genetics and environment play in why some people learn to read and spell more easily than others.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="425" height="282" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/twins.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-392" style="width:309px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/twins.jpg 425w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/twins-300x199.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 425px) 100vw, 425px" /></figure>



<p>Several <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23725549/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19076484/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">twins</a> in the United States suggested an interaction between genes and environment. In these studies, how much influence genetics had on reading skills seemed to be higher in families with a higher socioeconomic status. In other words, genetics appeared to have a bigger impact on a child&#8217;s reading ability when they were in a more advantaged environment. This idea is called a gene-by-environment interaction.</p>



<p>However, the evidence of this gene-by-environment interaction was mixed in studies conducted in the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19296213/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Kingdom</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28832969/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australia</a>. This puzzle led researchers to ask: can we use modern genetic data to test this theory in large, diverse populations?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach">A New Approach</h2>



<p>Researchers utilized summary statistics from a 2022 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/study-identifies-genetic-links-to-dyslexia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome-wide association study (GWAS) on dyslexia</a> to construct a polygenic score—a way of estimating someone’s genetic tendency toward a trait by adding up the small effects of thousands of DNA differences.</p>



<p>The team then applied this polygenic score to two large groups of children and adolescents in Australia and the United Kingdom to see if the score&#8217;s effect on reading and spelling skills was moderated by their family&#8217;s socioeconomic status. Socioeconomic status was used as a broad measure of environmental advantage, capturing factors like parental education level and household income.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-was-discovered-two-parallel-paths">What Was Discovered: Two Parallel Paths</h2>



<p>Both the dyslexia polygenic score (nature) and socioeconomic status (nurture) were significant predictors of reading and spelling performance. Together, demographic, genetic, and socioeconomic factors explained between 8% and 11.6% of the variation in reading skills.</p>



<p>However, the study found no interaction effect. Nature and nurture were both important, but they worked in parallel.</p>



<p>This means the influence of a person&#8217;s genetic predisposition was the same, regardless of their family&#8217;s socioeconomic background. In these groups, a higher genetic predisposition for reading provided a similar boost to children from all socioeconomic backgrounds.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bigger-picture">The Bigger Picture</h2>



<p>This finding is an important reminder to scientists to consider different environments when looking for gene-by-environment interactions. While some earlier US-based studies suggested an interaction, the different environments in these large UK and Australian groups showed a different outcome. Suggesting that both our genes and our environment make their own distinct contributions to the development of this fundamental skill.</p>



<p>Of course, every study has its limitations. The 23andMe research participants who contributed to the original GWAS are a self-selecting group and may not be perfectly representative of the general population. Additionally, only about 5% of 23andMe research participants said they had dyslexia, which is on the lower end of the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18652545/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commonly cited 5–10% range</a>.</p>



<p>Even so, this large-scale study provides a crucial piece of the puzzle, emphasizing how vital it is to test scientific findings in diverse environments to get the full story.</p>



<p></p>


Nature and Nurture: A New Look at the Genetics of Reading Ability


<p>This week the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is having its <a href="https://meetings.ashg.org/event/ASHG25/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annual meeting</a> in Boston. Attending the ASHG annual meeting is about more than just presenting our work, it&#8217;s one way we are working to ensure that the 23andMe<sup>®</sup> Research Institute contributes to a healthier future for everyone.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Amplifying impact:</strong> Sharing our discoveries with a global audience helps our work reach those who can build upon it, accelerating the path from discovery to clinic.</li>



<li><strong>Fostering collaboration:</strong> It&#8217;s where we connect with the brightest minds in the field. These conversations spark new ideas and forge partnerships that are essential for tackling complex diseases.</li>



<li><strong>Staying on the cutting edge:</strong> Exposure to the latest technologies and unpublished data keeps our research relevant and innovative.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-research-institute-at-ashg">23andMe Research Institute at ASHG</h2>



<p>For those attending, stop by our posters in the following sessions:</p>



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<p>WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15TH 2:30 &#8211; 4:30 PM (Posters; Board #2004W) <br><strong>Sustaining Research Ethics in Times of Change: A Framework from the 23andMe Research Program</strong></p>



<p>presented by Emily DelloRusso, Principal Regulatory Science Manager</p>
</div>



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<p id="block-e05b9433-cb70-4375-8c5a-ad9bb51dafb9">THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16TH 2:30 &#8211; 4:30 PM (Posters; Board #2035T)<br><strong>Explore23: a privacy-forward, secure, extensible, and easy-to-use web application for exploration of a large genomic research cohort</strong></p>



<p id="block-e05b9433-cb70-4375-8c5a-ad9bb51dafb9">presented by Julie Granka, Director, Statistical Genetics</p>
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<p>FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH 2:30 &#8211; 4:30 PM (Posters; Board #3014F)<br><strong>Learning about a genetic predisposition to depression is psychologically well tolerated among those with high polygenic risk scores</strong></p>



<p>presented by Rebecca Berns, Sr. Product Scientist I, Genomic Health and Sciences</p>
</div>



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<p>Interested in reading more? 23andMe has contributed to <a href="https://research.23andme.com/publications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than 300 research publications</a>.</p>



<p></p>


23andMe Research Institute Attending ASHG 2025


<p>Cannabis is already one of the most widely used drugs globally, and its use will likely grow even more as it becomes more socially accepted and legally available. For many the recreational use of cannabis poses few problems, but for as many as a third of users, it becomes problematic developing into an addiction or what scientists call cannabis use disorder. Research suggests that genetics may explain why.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-the-genome-for-clues">Searching the Genome for Clues</h2>



<p>In collaboration with 23andMe Research Institute, researchers at the University of California, San Diego <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-025-03219-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">published a study</a> today that found genetic links to cannabis use as well as links to psychiatric, cognitive, and physical health. The researchers used data from more than 130,000 people who consented to participate in 23andMe research. Participants answered survey questions on whether they had ever used cannabis (“lifetime use”) and, for those who had, how often they used it during their heaviest 30-day period (“frequency of use”). The team then conducted genome-wide association studies searching for genetic variants linked to ever trying cannabis and how often people used the drug.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-data-revealed">What the Data Revealed</h2>



<p>Researchers found that having ever used cannabis was associated with two genetic regions: <strong><em>CADM2</em></strong>—a gene <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/scientists-identify-genes-associated-with-cannabis-use" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously linked</a> to cannabis and other substance use, impulsivity, and risk-taking—and <strong><em>GRM3</em></strong>. While GRM3 has been tied to alcohol use, schizophrenia, and certain personality traits, this is the first time it’s been linked to cannabis use. How often someone used cannabis was associated with a different variant also near <em>CADM2</em>, strengthening this gene’s role in cannabis behaviors.<br><br>Both having ever used cannabis and how frequently someone used cannabis were genetically linked to other substance use, pain, and psychiatric conditions like depression. Researchers also created <strong>polygenic scores</strong>—which tally the effects of many different genetic variants—to estimate both the likelihood of ever having used cannabis and the frequency of cannabis use. These polygenic scores were able to replicate associations between cannabis use and substance use and mood disorders in two other independent research datasets (All of Us and BioVU). The researchers also uncovered novel associations with anxiety, celiac disease, HIV, and viral hepatitis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-research-matters">Why This Research Matters</h2>



<p>Most genetic research on cannabis has focused on two points in the spectrum: first use and cannabis use disorder. But the stages in between—like how often someone uses cannabis—are just as important. Studying these “pre-addiction” traits may help determine who is more likely to progress from a casual user to someone with cannabis use disorder. This study was one of the first genome wide association studies to look at traits that may lead to cannabis use disorder.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Traits like frequency of cannabis use can reveal genetic factors that shape vulnerability before addiction develops. Understanding these factors could eventually help predict risk for cannabis use disorder and related health conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-dna">More Than Just DNA</h2>



<p>Like all research there are some important considerations to keep in mind for this study:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>While this research focused on genetics, many non-genetic factors may also play a significant role in a person&#8217;s likelihood of using cannabis or developing cannabis use disorder.</li>



<li>The study was conducted in people of European descent (based on an analysis of their local genetic ancestry), so the findings may not fully apply to people of other ancestries.</li>



<li>The measure of frequency (use days in a 30-day window) of using cannabis doesn’t capture full patterns such as the duration of regular use or quantity consumed.</li>



<li>While <em>GRM3</em> is a promising lead, more work is needed to understand how the genetic variant in this region affects cannabis use biology.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-road-ahead">The Road Ahead</h2>



<p>Future research will need to expand to larger and more diverse cohorts and include other cannabis-related traits such as craving, withdrawal, and response to cannabis. Combining genetic insights from multiple stages of cannabis use could:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Improve the discovery of new genetic variants</li>



<li>Help build predictive models for problematic use</li>



<li>Clarify how cannabis genetics intersect with physical and mental health</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Takeaway:</strong> Studying genetic influences on early cannabis use behaviors could eventually help predict risk for cannabis use disorder and related health conditions, and may help shed light on who is most at risk for cannabis use disorder.&nbsp; These findings mark an important step toward understanding the genetics of cannabis use and its health consequences.</p>


New Genetic Insights Into Cannabis Use


<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-study-may-help-identify-and-more-quickly-help-the-60-of-people-with-major-depression-who-do-not-get-relief-from-their-initial-treatments">A new study may help identify and more quickly help the 60% of people with major depression who do not get relief from their initial treatments<strong>. </strong></h6>



<p>It is estimated that 60% of patients with major depressive disorder don&#8217;t find relief from their first medication, and as many as one-third develop <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10503923/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment-resistant depression</a>, which is often defined as still experiencing symptoms after trying at least two antidepressants.</p>



<p>Researchers at Johnson &amp; Johnson and the 23andMe Research Institute used advanced machine learning techniques to accurately identify those at most risk for treatment-resistant depression, a massive breakthrough for those suffering with this condition.</p>



<p>The groundbreaking research, published this week in the journal <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41028019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Scientific Reports</em></a>, used only self-reported information from about 23,000 people who consented to participate in 23andMe research. The model included a total of 101 predictive factors, including such things as age, symptoms that persist between episodes of depression, the duration of episodes of depression, stress levels, and suicidal thoughts. </p>



<p>Using this predictive model, researchers were able to accurately predict those at the highest risk for treatment-resistant depression 78% of the time, according to the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The predictive model did not use either genetics or lab results, just questions that can be easily assessed by a clinician.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why This Matters</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="508" height="531" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34304" style="width:161px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle.png 508w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/drug-bottle-287x300.png 287w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px" /></figure>



<p>Typically, antidepressants used to treat major depression take a little time to work, up to a month or a month and a half. When a treatment does not work, clinicians often prescribe an alternative medication. When someone with depression fails to respond to at least two different medications, they are deemed to have treatment-resistant depression. In many cases, it can take around a year for someone to finally be diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression.</p>



<p>That long delay in finding effective treatment has a cost, not just in the time it takes to identify treatment but in the prolonged suffering for those in the throes of depression, unable to get relief.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The promise of the kind of predictive modeling described in this new study is that it would give both people with depression and clinicians who treat them a tool to flag those who might not respond to standard therapies.</p>



<p>Instead of waiting to see if initial treatments are effective, it may accelerate the process of finding alternatives. Additionally, this predictive model only utilizes patient-reported information; no expensive testing is required.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More About the Predictive Model</h2>



<p>The model identified eight primary factors that predict treatment resistance, as reported by research participants. Each offers different dimensions of their depression.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="275" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/depression.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34307" style="width:184px;height:auto"/></figure>



<p>Participants reported on the different symptoms that persisted between the episodes of depression. They reported on how long each episode of depression lasted, and how many years they&#8217;d experienced these periodic episodes. Also included in the self-reported data were levels of stress, or whether they had recurring post-traumatic stress, and two critical factors that looked at more external stressors and life events. Also factored into the modeling was a participant&#8217;s age and whether they had suicidal thoughts. Finally, the model included the self-reported timing between episodes of depression, which was significant when the time between episodes was shorter.</p>



<p>Using these factors and advanced machine learning the researchers were able to accurately distinguish between those who were treatment-resistant and those who responded to treatment. An accurate way to identify if someone will or will not respond to treatment could translate into meaningful clinical benefits. It could mean the difference between waiting months for effective treatment instead of years.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Personalized Depression Care</h2>



<p>This research represents a crucial step toward more personalized mental health treatment and a move away from a &#8220;one-size-fits-all&#8221; approach to treatment of depression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For the millions of people living with depression, this work represents a path toward precision care, shortening the time to effective treatment and improving quality of life.</p>



<p>The future of depression treatment lies not just in developing new medications, but in better understanding who needs what treatment when. This predictive model brings us measurably closer to that goal, promising a world where effective depression treatment is not a matter of luck, but of precision.</p>



<p><em>If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please reach out to a mental health professional. The </em><a href="https://988lifeline.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>National Suicide Prevention Lifeline</em></a><em> (988) provides 24/7 support for those in crisis.</em><br></p>


Predicting Treatment-Resistant Depression Using the 23andMe Survey Data


<p>Every year on the third Saturday in October, the world celebrates International Archaeology Day, recognizing the important contributions archaeological research makes to society. This year, to celebrate, we&#8217;re spotlighting one of our favorite archaeological mysteries in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM </sup>feature—the skeletons of Roopkund Lake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-roopkund-lake"><strong>About Roopkund Lake</strong></h2>



<p>Roopkund Lake is a small glacial lake located over 5,000 meters (over 16,000 ft) above sea level in the Nanda Devi National Park, in the Indian Himalayas. In 1942, a forest ranger patrolling the park stumbled upon a chilling scene: hundreds of skeletal remains strewn around the lake. The site has captivated researchers and locals alike ever since.</p>



<p>The mystery of who these individuals were, how they died, and why they were in such a remote and inhospitable location has sparked decades of speculation. Some early researchers proposed that the remains belonged to an army that had lost its way in the mountains, while others suggested they might have been traders following a trans-Himalayan route that had since vanished. A few archaeologists posited that they were pilgrims traveling to nearby shrines, possibly part of the ancient <em>Nanda Devi Raj Jat</em>, a religious procession spanning ~290 kilometers (~180 miles) that is still undertaken in the region every 12 years.</p>



<p>The identification of women and children among the dead, however, made some of the proposed explanations less plausible–especially the claim that they may have been members of an army. Without weapons, trade goods, or written records, no single theory could fully account for the diversity and composition of the group. Local folklore offered its own interpretation: a king, his family, and attendants on a pilgrimage to honor the mountain goddess Nanda Devi had violated sacred protocol and were struck down by a deadly hailstorm in divine retribution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-exciting-23andme-connection"><strong>An exciting 23andMe connection</strong></h2>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31431628/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2019</a>, scientists sequenced the genomes of 38 individuals from Roopkund Lake in an effort to better understand the origins of the mysterious remains. But instead of resolving this longstanding mystery, their findings uncovered an even more complex puzzle. </p>



<p>So what makes this story one of 23andMe’s favorite archaeological mysteries? That 2019 research study was actually led by our very own Dr. Éadaoin Harney—a Scientist on the Population Genetics R&amp;D Team and 23andMe’s “resident ancient DNA expert.” She worked on this study during her PhD at Harvard University where she was a member of Prof. David Reich’s ancient DNA laboratories–one of the largest ancient DNA research laboratories in the world.</p>



<p>“<strong>When I first started working with the Roopkund ancient DNA data, I thought that genetics would be a simple and straightforward way to finally help solve the mystery of who they were</strong>,” said Dr. Harney. But she was in for a big surprise! “The first hint that this wasn’t going to be as simple as I initially thought was when we discovered how ancestrally diverse the Roopkund individuals were. Then we learned that they didn’t all die at the same time, as had previously been believed. Instead radiocarbon dates generated from the bones spanned over 1,000 years.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-dna-adds-to-the-mystery"><strong>How DNA adds to the mystery</strong></h2>



<p>The 2019 genetic analysis showed that the individuals fell into three distinct genetic groups, with ancestries from across the globe.</p>



<p>The largest group (which we’ll refer to as Roopkund A) consisted of 23 individuals who died between the 7th and 10th centuries CE, likely during multiple distinct events. Genetically, all appeared South Asian, but with remarkably diverse ancestries–each individual appeared most closely related to different present-day South Asian populations. This finding suggests that they may have traveled to the lake from multiple locations across the subcontinent. Although the exact purpose of their journey to Roopkund Lake remains uncertain, some researchers speculate that they may have been early participants in the <em>Nanda Devi Raj Jat</em>, a traditional pilgrimage that still passes by the lake every 12 years.</p>



<p>The other two groups were even more surprising. One group (Roopkund B) consisted of 14 individuals whose DNA connected them to present-day populations from the eastern Mediterranean—particularly populations in Greece and neighboring regions. The third group (Roopkund C) was represented by a single individual with genetic ancestry most similar to Southeast Asian populations. Radiocarbon dating revealed that these individuals likely died in a single event some time between the 17th and 20th centuries. Why people with ancestry from such distant regions were traveling together in one of the most remote parts of the Himalayas remains a mystery to this day.</p>



<p>Dr. Harney joined 23andMe in 2020 with the goal of creating an approach to identify direct genetic connections between historical and living people. She and her colleagues on the Population Genetics R&amp;D Team succeeded! This technology was first described in their <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10958645/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 study of African Americans from Catoctin Furnace</a>, which was published in (and featured on the cover of) Science. She then helped spearhead the creation of the 23andMe Historical Matches feature, enabling customers to learn how they connect to different historical and ancient individuals.</p>



<p>Over the last five years, one of her secret ambitions was to use this technology to try and finally solve the mystery of the Roopkund individuals&#8217; identities. Could identifying any close genetic relatives of the Roopkund individuals in the 23andMe genetic database help us learn about their identities and answer what brought them to Roopkund?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-did-we-solve-the-mystery"><strong>Did we solve the mystery?</strong></h2>



<p>We compared the Roopkund individuals to over 11 million research consenting participants in the 23andMe genetic database. While we were hoping this analysis would reveal a number of close genetic relatives, unfortunately, the mystery of Roopkund Lake lives on.</p>



<p>We found that only about 1,240 research participants—less than 0.011% of the individuals included in our analysis—share any sort of genetic connection to the Roopkund individuals. And of those participants, we can count the number of individuals who share over 30 cM of DNA (what we label a “significant genetic connection” in the Historical Matches feature) on just one hand. In fact, we found so few &#8220;significant relatives” that the chances any of those connections trace back to a recent shared common ancestor on a genealogical family tree are extremely slim.</p>



<p><em>(Although if you happen to be one of those lucky individuals who sees a “significant connection” listed to one of the Roopkund individuals in your 23andMe report, please </em><a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/requests/new" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>reach out to us</em></a><em>, as we’d love to learn more!)</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-else-did-we-discover"><strong>What else did we discover?</strong></h2>



<p>So, we didn’t solve the mystery of who the Roopkund individuals were, but we did gather fascinating data about their connections to the present day.</p>



<p>First, here is a breakdown of the 17 Roopkund individuals whose DNA was well preserved enough to include in our analyses:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>8 from Roopkund A (South Asian ancestry)</li>



<li>8 from Roopkund B (Eastern Mediterranean ancestry)</li>



<li>1 from Roopkund C (Southeast Asian ancestry)</li>
</ul>



<p>As we mentioned, about 1,240 23andMe research participants shared a genetic connection to the Roopkund individuals. The figure below shows the number of matches each Roopkund group received and highlights the amount of DNA shared. As you can see, the vast majority of the connections we discovered involve less than 20 cM of DNA, meaning that they likely trace back to a shared common ancestor who lived long before any of the Roopkund individuals.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="411" height="252" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34359" style="width:625px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png 411w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3-300x184.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 411px) 100vw, 411px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>This figure shows the distribution of total shared DNA that we detected between 23andMe research participants and each of the Roopkund groups (A, B and C). It shows that the vast majority of the connections we identified are to individuals in the Roopkund B group, and the DNA segments they share are shorter than 15 cM. In order to protect participant privacy, all counts <em> less than or equal to </em>5 are masked and appear equal to 5. </em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Of those who share a genetic connection, the majority (~1,160) shared a connection to one or more individuals in the Roopkund B group—the one with Eastern Mediterranean-related ancestry. This didn&#8217;t surprise us, since the majority of 23andMe research participants have European ancestry, making them more likely to be related to the Roopkund B individuals.</p>



<p>In addition to occurring more frequently, the Roopkund B individuals also shared some of the strongest genetic connections to 23andMe research participants, as shown in the figure below which depicts the maximum amount of DNA that each Roopkund individual shared with a research participant.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="643" height="448" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34360" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png 643w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4-300x209.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 643px) 100vw, 643px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>This figure shows the maximum amount of shared DNA that we detected between 23andMe research participants and each of the Roopkund individuals. The individuals are arranged along the x-axis by when they lived, as measured by radiocarbon dating. We masked this result for Roopkund individuals who shared DNA with 5 or fewer 23andMe research participants in order to protect participant privacy, and reported maximum DNA sharing as equal to 0.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>We decided to see what Genetic Groups the Roopkund individuals could be connected to, using the same approach that we use to connect customers to these Genetic Groups.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Many of the Roopkund B individuals received matches to Genetic Groups in south eastern Europe, with the strongest connections to groups in Greece and Crete–exactly mirroring the findings of the original study!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="849" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1024x849.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34352" style="width:575px" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1024x849.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-300x249.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-768x636.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-880x729.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_b_2-1180x978.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>This map shows the location of the different Genetic Groups that we compared the Roopkund B individuals to. Groups shown in darker colors shared the strongest genetic matches to one or more of the Roopkund B individuals.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Since the Roopkund A and Roopkund C individuals shared far fewer genetic connections to 23andMe research participants, it was hard to localize their ancestry in the same way. But we were able to connect the Roopkund C individual to a single Genetic Group, located in China. This finding is generally consistent with the original study, where this individual exhibited connections to populations in East and Southeast Asia.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="874" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1024x874.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34353" style="width:592px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1024x874.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-300x256.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-768x655.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-880x751.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/roopkund_c_2-1180x1007.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>This map shows the location of the different Genetic Groups that we compared the Roopkund C individual to. Groups shown in darker colors shared the strongest genetic matches to the Roopkund C individual.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>We couldn’t connect the Roopkund A individuals to any of the Genetic Groups that we have identified. That doesn’t mean they aren’t genetically related to any of these groups. Instead it is likely just because the original research team was only able to sequence a small amount of DNA from these individuals, making it harder to connect them to research participants in the 23andMe database.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next"><strong>What’s Next?</strong></h2>



<p>So for now, all we can say is that the mystery of Roopkund Lake continues. But we promise this archaeological site is one that is close to our hearts. If we have any updates in the future, we’ll be sure to let you know.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of the individuals who died at Roopkund Lake—or hundreds of other historical people? The Historical Matches feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p>And if you are interested in finding ways to celebrate International Archaeology Day, check out organizations like the Archaeological Institute of America, which has an exciting <a href="https://www.archaeological.org/events/category/international-archaeology-day/list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calendar of Archaeology-related events</a>.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to the Mysterious Skeletons of Roopkund Lake


<p><em>This update is currently available to all eligible customers on the latest, V5, genotyping chip. </em></p>



<p>The 23andMe Ancestry Team has been working hard on <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-major-update-to-ancestry-composition-is-coming-soon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a major update to the Ancestry Composition report</a>, and results are now available! Our goal is to provide the most accurate and meaningful genetic ancestry results in the industry. We ground our models in rigorous science, guided by established population genetics research, to ensure your results are consistent, reliable, and can help guide your personal journey of discovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-changes-you-ll-see">What changes you&#8217;ll see</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>New granularity in your ancestry percentages: </strong>33 new populations in Europe and 6 in the Americas to explore. Plus we&#8217;ve updated our algorithm to eliminate “Broadly” and “Unassigned” categories in the default results view.&nbsp;</li>



<li><strong>More accurate results: </strong>A new state-of-the-art DNA phasing pipeline reduces errors and gives a more accurate estimate of your percentages, even if your ancestry isn&#8217;t from Europe or the Americas.&nbsp;</li>



<li><strong>New features:</strong> A new “Version History” section lets you compare your new results to your previous result, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members can also access all previous versions of their results at different confidence thresholds.</li>
</ul>



<p>This update powers your Ancestry Composition, Ancestry Timeline, Parental Inheritance, DNA Painting, and more.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-focus-for-this-update">Our focus for this update</h2>



<p>For this update we focused on improving the entire Ancestry Composition pipeline integrating the latest research. Throughout the rounds of development we look at two major metrics: precision and recall. Precision lets us know<strong> how often</strong> we correctly predict that a piece of DNA is from a specific population. Recall tells us <strong>how much</strong> DNA from a specific population we can correctly identify. Working to maximize both precision and recall is critical to making Ancestry Composition and other ancestry features as accurate as possible.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="366" height="368" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34276" style="width:170px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel.png 366w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-298x300.png 298w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AC78_wheel-271x271.png 271w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 366px) 100vw, 366px" /></figure>



<p>The final models in this update had good precision and recall across the new populations, ensuring the accuracy of the ancestry breakdown predictions while also expanding the specificity and granularity of the populations. One example of the improvements gained by this update is the reduced amount of North Asian ancestry predicted for some Indigenous North American customers. You can learn more about the development process and see precision and recall metrics for each population in the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a>.</p>



<p>While this update focused on increasing granularity in Europe and the Americas, customers from other parts of the world will still benefit thanks to the improvements to the science and the removal of broadly and unassigned ancestry.</p>



<p><a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Sign in</strong></a><strong> and check out your new results.&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>Not yet a 23andMe member? Learn more about what <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe has to offer</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-questions-you-might-be-wondering-about">Some questions you might be wondering about</h2>



<p><strong>Why are certain populations combined?</strong></p>



<p>To define the 78 Ancestry Composition populations, we analyzed the reference datasets, chose candidate populations that appeared to cluster together, and then evaluated whether we can distinguish those groups in practice. Some populations tend to cluster on their own, but most country-level populations overlap to some degree. In these cases, we experiment with different groupings of country-level populations to find combinations that we can distinguish with high confidence. Check out the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a> to learn more.</p>



<p>Does this mean that the people in those groups are the same? No. Each group has its own history, culture, and often different languages. These groupings are a reflection of our current genetic understanding and scientific methods, not a statement about cultural identity.</p>



<p>Does this mean DNA that is assigned to these populations is from all groups? Not necessarily. For example, DNA assigned to the Belarusian, Polish &amp; Ukrainian group might mean your ancestors were from one, two, or all three of those country-level populations. Sometimes other information from your DNA, such as your Genetic Groups, might help you identify more specific locations your ancestors may have come from.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Why are some reference panels smaller than before?</strong></p>



<p>A reference panel, or a reference population or reference dataset, is a collection of DNA samples from people with some common connection. We compare your DNA to these reference panels to determine which ancestry most closely corresponds to your DNA. We often use 23andMe research participants who tell us they have four grandparents all born in the same country for reference panels.</p>



<p>However, sometimes when we look at the ancestry prediction for individuals in a reference panel for a specific population a few individuals don&#8217;t end up being predicted to have a reasonably large percentage of their DNA from that population. These individuals are considered outliers. As part of this update we systematically reviewed our reference panels around the world to remove these outliers. But don&#8217;t worry; even though some reference panels might be smaller, we still check that the models perform as well as (or better than) before for people with ancestry from these regions.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Why is there no Indigenous Caribbean population?</strong></p>



<p>To define a new ancestry population we need reference panels made up of individuals who have deep genetic roots from one place. However, many individuals from the Caribbean are highly admixed (“admixture” refers to places where there was mixing of previously separate populations). This makes it incredibly difficult to identify a sufficient number of individuals with primarily indigenous DNA from the Caribbean. The reference panels for the new Indigenous American populations are almost entirely unadmixed, which is why we are able to provide ancestry percentages for these populations.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="502" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1024x502.png" alt="" class="wp-image-27359" style="width:371px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1024x502.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-300x147.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-768x376.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-880x431.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/avg_ancestry_caribbean-1180x578.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>So where does Indigenous Caribbean ancestry show up? We tend to see that Indigenous American ancestry in individuals from the Caribbean is spread among several of the new Indigenous American populations (especially North American, Southern Mesoamerican, Central Andean &amp; Amazonian, and Northern Andean).</p>



<p>Does this mean Indigenous Caribbean ancestors came from those places? Not necessarily. It simply means that of the options available today, those populations are the closest genetic match.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Why weren&#8217;t other parts of the world updated?</strong></p>



<p>While we would love to be able to make major updates around the world more frequently, each new population requires new reference data and major updates in the prediction models. Throughout the years we have increased the number of populations across the rest of the world; however, we have not updated the populations in Europe since 2012. This update was an important opportunity to provide more detail in Europe and the Americas.</p>



<p>We will continue to work towards providing more specificity and granularity around the world in your ancestry percentages as well as Genetic Groups (keep an eye out over the next few months for new Genetic Groups in Africa), <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup>, and other features.</p>



<p><strong>Why did the colors change?</strong></p>



<p>Adding 39 new colors to the color palette was quite the task for the 23andMe Design Team. The team took this opportunity to think about the colors holistically, coming up with a new system that provides a gradient across the world, allowing for nearby populations that are closer together geographically to be represented by more similar colors, while at the same time providing a system that can work for more populations in the future.</p>



<p><strong>Who will get this update?</strong></p>



<p>All customers genotyped on the current (V5) chip and with access to the ancestry service will see this update. A genotyping chip (or array) tests for a fixed set of genetic variants (SNPs) across the genome. Different chip versions (V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, etc.) test for different sets of SNPs. More recent chips often include better coverage for certain populations, recently discovered variants, or better genetic markers that help improve ancestry?composition algorithms or detect health?associated variants.</p>



<p>Ancestry Composition is trained on specific genotyping chip versions, and these latest models were only trained on the latest chip version. The models are incompatible with data from older genotyping chips, as older chips don’t include most of the genetic markers used by these new ancestry models. More recent chip versions are also designed with better coverage for diverse populations.<br>If you&#8217;re on an older chip version (or not sure which chip version you have) learn about chip upgrades <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360025014494-How-Do-I-Upgrade-My-Genotyping-Chip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



<p><strong>What happens if my family deleted data and I want to connect with them?</strong></p>



<p>When you connect with a biological parent through Your Connections, we use the additional information we learn from your parents&#8217; DNA to improve the resolution of your Ancestry Composition results. You will also be able to see the proportions of each ancestry that you inherited from each parent in the Parental Inheritance section in your Ancestry Composition report. If a family member has deleted their account they will need to purchase a new kit and create a new account before you can connect with them.</p>


It’s Finally Here: A New Version of Ancestry Composition


<p>Each year from September 15–October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of people from Spain, Latin America, and other Spanish-speaking communities. To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting a remarkable ancient DNA study from Las Gobas, a medieval site in northern Spain that sheds new light on life in early Iberia, which comprises present-day Spain and Portugal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-the-scene-iberia-in-the-early-medieval-period">Setting the Scene: Iberia in the Early Medieval Period</h2>



<p>From the 5th to 8th centuries CE, Iberia was ruled by the Visigoths, a Germanic people who established power after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. In 711 CE, their kingdom collapsed after the Umayyads—an Islamic dynasty with roots in Arabia and North Africa—invaded and established the Emirate (and later the Caliphate) of Córdoba. This new state controlled much of Iberia, along with the Balearic Islands and parts of North Africa.</p>



<p>In the mountainous north, however, many communities retained their independence and Christian traditions, even as the rest of the Iberian peninsula underwent profound cultural and political change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-at-las-gobas">Life at Las Gobas</h2>



<p>Las Gobas, located in today’s province of Burgos in northern Spain, consists of 13 rock-cut caves and several freestanding structures. Beginning in the 7th century, it served as a mixed-use settlement with homes, a Christian church, and a cemetery. By the late 9th century, the residential area was abandoned, but the site continued to be used as a burial ground and place of worship until the 11th century.</p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39196943/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2024</a>, researchers analyzed DNA from 33 individuals buried at Las Gobas. They discovered that the community’s ancestry remained surprisingly stable over the centuries, with little evidence of genetic influence from the Islamic expansion that reshaped much of Iberia.</p>



<p>Why was Las Gobas different? Their DNA offered a clue. Many individuals carried stretches of identical DNA inherited from both parents—patterns that often occur in small, insular populations with limited outside contact. This genetic isolation likely helped shield the community from broader population shifts happening elsewhere.</p>



<p>The study also revealed striking details about life at Las Gobas:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Inbreeding: </strong>The DNA of several individuals showed evidence that their parents were close relatives; likely first cousins or closer.</li>



<li><strong>Disease:</strong> DNA evidence showed infections from multiple pathogens, including what may be one of the earliest documented cases of smallpox in northern Iberia.</li>



<li><strong>Violence:</strong> Skeletal remains showed signs of traumatic injuries, likely from swords—evidence of interpersonal conflict or warfare.</li>
</ul>



<p>Taken together, the findings paint a vivid—and sometimes harsh—picture of life more than a thousand years ago in a small, tightly knit community in northern Spain.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with these newly added individuals from Las Gobas—or hundreds of other historical people? The <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to the Medieval Iberian Site of Las Gobas


<p><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/ancestry-composition-version-7-is-here" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>This update</em></a><em> <em>is currently available to all eligible customers on the latest, V5, genotyping chip.</em></em></p>



<p>23andMe’s flagship Ancestry Composition algorithm was last updated in 2022, when three new reference populations were added in China. Since then, the 23andMe Ancestry Team has focused on improving the specificity of reference populations and updating the methods underlying this state-of-the art algorithm. The result? More specificity and accuracy in the ancestry breakdowns we provide.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="508" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1024x508.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34246" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1024x508.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-300x149.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-768x381.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-880x437.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ac-omega-map-correc-1180x585.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The project, Version 7 of Ancestry Composition, is the most significant update to the feature ever.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-algorithm-expanded-populations-better-results">Improved algorithm, expanded populations, better results</h2>



<p>Over the last few months, we’ve been hard at work finalizing the details on this major update to your favorite report: Ancestry Composition.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="499" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1024x499.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34237" style="width:537px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1024x499.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-300x146.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-768x374.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-880x429.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3-1180x575.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-3.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Here’s what we&#8217;ve been working on:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Better breakdowns in Europe and the Americas</strong>: Thanks mainly to consented 23andMe research participants we&#8217;ve been able to expand the number of unique populations in our reference datasets. Reference datasets are collections of DNA samples from people with deep roots in a specific part of the world. It&#8217;s what is needed to compare each piece of your DNA to in order to determine where in the world that DNA most likely came from. What this means is we’re launching with nearly four times the resolution in Europe and six new populations in the Americas. We also took the opportunity to refine reference datasets from around the world, making them more specific to each global population.</li>



<li><strong>Enhanced Accuracy:</strong> The accuracy of these new ancestry results are greatly improved by using our <a href="https://www.cell.com/hgg-advances/fulltext/S2666-2477(25)00082-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently published</a>, state-of-the-art DNA phasing method. You could think of phasing as sorting which DNA you inherited from each parent. Reducing errors in phasing means a more accurate estimate of your ancestry percentages and better <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/212860507-Chromosome-Painting-23andMe-Ancestry-Results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA Painting</a>.&nbsp;</li>



<li><strong>Elimination of Broadly and Unassigned DNA: </strong>We are updating our algorithm to report the most likely assignment for a given stretch of DNA rather than at a fixed confidence threshold. This will have the benefit of eliminating &#8220;Broadly&#8221; and &#8220;Unassigned&#8221; categories in the default results view. You will still be able to view your results at different confidence thresholds in the Version History section.</li>



<li><strong>Better Error Detection:</strong> We&#8217;ve upgraded our smoother to better filter out erroneous trace ancestries between two larger blocks of ancestry. See our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/ancestry-composition-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Composition Guide</a> for more information about the current smoother.</li>



<li><strong>Version History:</strong> Compare your new results to your old ones in a new &#8220;Version History&#8221; section. <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members will also be able to access previous versions at different confidence settings.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-new-reference-populations-nbsp">What are the new reference populations?&nbsp;</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>33 new ancestry populations in Europe are coming:</strong> Albanian &amp; Macedonian; Andalusian, Asturian &amp; Castilian; Aragonese &amp; Catalan; Austrian &amp; Southern German; Basque; Belarusian, Polish &amp; Ukrainian; Belgian, Rhinelander &amp; Southern Dutch; Bosnian, Croatian, Montenegrin &amp; Serbian; Bulgarian, Moldovan &amp; Romanian; Canary Islander; Czech, Hungarian, Slovak &amp; Southern Polish; Danish; Dutch &amp; Northern German; English; Estonian; Finnish; French; Greek; Icelandic; Irish; Kosovar &amp; Northern Albanian; Latvian; Lithuanian; Maltese; Northern Italian; Norwegian; Portuguese &amp; Galician; Russian; Sardinian; Scottish; Slovenian; Southern Italian; Swedish; Swiss, Southwestern German &amp; Western Austrian; Welsh</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="840" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-1024x840.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34262" style="width:523px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-1024x840.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-300x246.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-768x630.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map-880x722.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/europe_map.png 1101w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Indigenous American will be broken into 6 new ancestry populations:</strong> Arctic North American, Central Andean &amp; Amazonian, North American, Northern Andean, Southern Mesoamerican, and Western North American</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="562" height="393" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34236" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2.png 562w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/image-2-300x210.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 562px) 100vw, 562px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-dna-story-now-clearer-across-time-place-and-family">Your DNA story, now clearer across time, place, and family</h2>



<p>These updates, drawn from sharper science and richer data, power everything you use to explore your ancestry, including Ancestry Timeline, Parental Inheritance, DNA Painting, and more. This builds on the world’s most comprehensive ancestry breakdown on the market with over 4,000 regions, helping you experience the life-changing power of DNA by tracing where your ancestors lived and what they passed on to you.</p>



<p>Ancestry Composition, Version 7. More precision. More connection. More you.</p>



<p>This is a massive project for us and a chance to get back to our roots by digging deeper into yours. We’re thrilled you’re as excited as we are.</p>



<p>The 23andMe Ancestry Team</p>



<p></p>


A Major Update to Ancestry Composition


<p>This August, we’re adding 23 new historical individuals whose genomes were studied as part of a large-scale investigation into one of Europe’s most iconic eras—the Viking Age (800–1050 CE).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-viking">What is a Viking?</h2>



<p>The term Vikings refers to seafaring people from Scandinavia (present-day Denmark, Sweden, and Norway) who lived between the late 8th and late 11th centuries. Renowned for their sailing skills and distinctive longships, Vikings traveled widely—raiding, trading, and settling far beyond their homelands. Their influence stretched from the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and even as far as North America.</p>



<p>This period of exploration and expansion left lasting cultural and genetic legacies across Europe and beyond, which scientists can now explore through ancient DNA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-genetics-of-the-viking-age">Studying the Genetics of the Viking Age</h2>



<p>In 2020, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32939067/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers sequenced the genomes of 442 individuals</a> from archaeological sites across Europe and Greenland dating to, or around, the Viking Age. The results revealed that Viking populations were genetically diverse and spread their ancestries into many regions. For example, the study found evidence of:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Danish-like ancestry moving into England</li>



<li>Swedish-like ancestry reaching the Balkans</li>



<li>Norwegian-like ancestry influencing Ireland, Iceland, and Greenland</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-some-of-the-newly-added-individuals">Meet Some of the Newly Added Individuals</h2>



<p>The 23 historical individuals we’re adding this month come from eight archaeological sites that span the wide geographic range touched by Vikings. Highlights include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>A 10th-century ship burial on Tomme Island, Norway.</strong> Excavated in 1910, this large earthen mound overlooked a natural harbor and contained a mid-10th century ship, the remains of two individuals, and rich grave goods, including weapons and jewelry.</li>



<li><strong>The Salme ship burials, Saaremaa, Estonia.</strong> First discovered in 2008 during construction work, the site revealed two ship burials. The first contained seven individuals; the second, 34. These burials likely held warrior-seafarers who died in an armed conflict during the Vendel Period (8th century), which directly preceded the Viking Age.</li>



<li><strong>An Icelandic church buried under volcanic ash.</strong> Archaeologists uncovered a mid-10th century hall, an associated cemetery, and a church in southern Iceland. Based on volcanic ash layers from eruptions of Katla volcano, all individuals buried here died before 1300 CE, when the site was completely covered.</li>
</ul>



<p>And more!</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with these newly added Viking Age individuals—or hundreds of other historical people? The <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Europe’s Viking Age


<p>This July, in honor of French-American Heritage Month, we’re adding four new individuals from early medieval France to our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-demography-of-northern-france">Studying the Demography of Northern France</h2>



<p>In a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51087-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 study published in Nature Communications</a>, researchers sequenced the genomes of 3,234 present-day individuals from across northern France to explore the region’s population history. As part of this study, they also analyzed the DNA of six historical individuals who lived between the 4th and 11th centuries CE, recovered from archaeological sites in the Pays de la Loire region of northwestern France—four of whom had DNA of high enough quality to be added to the Historical Matches feature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northwestern-france-in-the-early-medieval-period">Northwestern France in the Early Medieval Period</h2>



<p>The period between the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5<sup>th</sup> century and the rise of the Carolingian Empire in the 9<sup>th</sup> century was one of major cultural and demographic transformations in northwestern France. While few written records survive, archaeological and linguistic evidence points to a region shaped by interactions with British, Irish, and Germanic populations. This study offers new genetic insights into this transitional period in history.</p>



<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/2025/07/medieval_france-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34036" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-300x169.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-768x432.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-880x495.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-reveals-migration-across-europe-and-beyond">DNA Reveals Migration Across Europe—and Beyond</h2>



<p>By studying the genomes of present-day and historical individuals, the research team uncovered strong genetic links between the people of northern France and of Great Britain and Ireland, supporting the idea that migration—not just trade or cultural exchange—connected these regions during the early Middle Ages.</p>



<p>The study also revealed regional differences in ancestry across northern France. For instance, people living north of the Loire River had more ancestry linked to Bronze Age populations from the Eurasian Steppe, introduced to western Europe around 2500 BCE with the spread of the Bell Beaker culture. In contrast, those south of the river retained more ancestry from earlier Neolithic farming populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While most of the historical individuals whose genomes were sequenced in this study were genetically similar to modern northern French populations, the research team was surprised to discover that one individual had recent North African ancestry. This finding highlights the fact that long-distance mobility and migration played a role in shaping the demography of northern France, even during the Medieval Period.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of these newly added individuals from early medieval France—or to hundreds of other historical individuals? The Historical Matches feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Early Medieval France


<p>We’re excited to announce an update to our 23andMe Ancestry Service adding greater detail for people with East Asian ancestry. We previously introduced Genetic Groups in <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan</a>, and now we&#8217;ve expanded our Genetic Groups in this region to include groups in China, Korea, and Mongolia. </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/2025/07/east_asia-1024x724.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34028" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-300x212.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-768x543.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-880x622.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-1180x834.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>More than 70% of our customers with a majority of their ancestry from China, Korea, or Mongolia, who tested on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest genotyping chip</a>, are expected to see a new match to at least one of these regions. And <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium™ members</a> will also be able to see any distant Genetic Group connections they may have.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-china">China</h3>



<p>With its vast geography and thousands of years of continuous civilization, China’s population tells a story of ancient migrations, dynastic expansions, and cultural blending. Beyond its borders, waves of Chinese emigration over the past few centuries—spurred by trade, labor opportunities, and political upheaval—have spread the Chinese diaspora across Southeast Asia, North America, and beyond. These new Genetic Groups may give you the opportunity to trace your lineage back to specific regions and uncover the stories of movement, adaptation, and resilience.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-korea">Korea</h3>



<p>Shaped by rugged mountains, fertile river valleys, and a deep sense of cultural continuity, Korea tells a story of resilient kingdoms and a people who have preserved their culture through centuries of challenge and change. From the ancient kingdom of Gojoseon to the powerful Three Kingdoms era and the long reign of the Joseon dynasty, Korean history is marked by innovation, Confucian scholarship, and a strong cultural backbone. Despite invasions, colonization, and the lasting division of the peninsula, Korea has maintained a distinct language, script, and cultural legacy.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mongolia">Mongolia</h3>



<p>Known as the birthplace of the Mongol Empire, Mongolia has a deep nomadic heritage that stretches across the steppes of Central Asia. Mongolia rose to global prominence under the leadership of Genghis Khan in the 13th century, uniting nomadic tribes and forging connections from Europe to Asia. Despite centuries of foreign influence, Mongolia has preserved its language, identity, and nomadic heritage. Today, its past lives on not just in epic histories, but in the enduring customs and landscapes of the steppe.</p>



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



<p>The 23andMe 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/new-genetic-groups-in-eastern-europe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eastern Europe</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/european-diaspora-genetic-groups-update" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European diasporas in North America and South Africa</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-french-german-us-canada" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">French and German Groups in North America</a>, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Asia</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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">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/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ancestry Service and more</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Genetic Groups added as part of this update:&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">China and Taiwan</h4>



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



<li>Central Guangdong Coast</li>



<li>Changle District</li>



<li>Chaoshan Region</li>



<li>Gan and Xiang River Basins</li>



<li>Greater Taishan Region</li>



<li>Guangdong Coast</li>



<li>Guanghai Bay</li>



<li>Hai and Liao River Basins</li>



<li>Hainan</li>



<li>Hong Kong</li>



<li>Hong Kong–Shenzhen Region</li>



<li>Hongshui River Basin</li>



<li>Jiao River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Dong River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Min River Basin</li>



<li>Luan and Songhua River Basin</li>



<li>Luoyuan Bay</li>



<li>Min River Estuary</li>



<li>North and Northeast China Plains</li>



<li>Northern Fujian Coast</li>



<li>Northern Guangzhou</li>



<li>Northern Jiangmen</li>



<li>Northern Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Northern Taishan</li>



<li>Northern Taiwan</li>



<li>Ou River Basin</li>



<li>Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Shandong and Liaodong Peninsulas</li>



<li>Sichuan Basin</li>



<li>Southeastern China Coast</li>



<li>Southern Guangxi</li>



<li>Southern Jiangmen</li>



<li>Southern Tibetan Plateau</li>



<li>Southwestern Taiwan and Penghu Islands</li>



<li>Taichung Basin</li>



<li>Taihang Mountains</li>



<li>Taipei Basin</li>



<li>Taiwan Strait</li>



<li>Tarim Basin</li>



<li>Wenzhou Coastal Plains</li>



<li>Western Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Wugui Mountain Region</li>



<li>Xishuangbanna</li>



<li>Yangtze River Delta</li>



<li>Yong River Basin</li>



<li>You River Basin</li>



<li>Zhongshan–Zhuhai Coast</li>



<li>Zhuoshui and Dajia River Basins</li>



<li>Zuo River Basin</li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Korea</h4>



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



<li>Honam</li>



<li>Honam Plain</li>



<li>Jeju Island</li>



<li>Lower Yeongsan River Basin</li>



<li>Mudeungsan</li>



<li>Naejangsan and Haenam Peninsula</li>



<li>Nakdong River Basin</li>



<li>Nam River Basin</li>



<li>North-Central Korean Peninsula</li>



<li>Northern Sobaek Mountains</li>



<li>Southern Sobaek Mountains</li>



<li>Southwestern Korean Coast</li>



<li>Yeongnam</li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Mongolia</h4>



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



<li>Eastern Gobi Desert</li>



<li>Eastern Mongolian Steppe</li>



<li>Gobi Altai Mountains</li>



<li>Lake Khövsgöl and Ider River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Selenge River Basin</li>



<li>Mongolian Altai Mountains</li>



<li>Northern Great Lakes Depression</li>



<li>Northern Lake Baikal</li>



<li>Orkhon River Basin</li>



<li>Southern Great Lakes Depression and Suman River Basin</li>



<li>Southwestern Lake Baikal</li>



<li>Transbaikal Region</li>



<li>Tuul River Basin and Southern Khangai Mountains</li>



<li>Western Khangai Mountains</li>



<li>Zavkhan River Basin</li>
</ul>


23andMe Adds New Ancestry Details for China, Korea, and Mongolia


<p>This month, we’re expanding our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature to include a 2024 study that reminds us that, throughout human history, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/how-was-your-sex-determined-it-might-be-a-lot-more-complicated-than-you-think" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological sex</a> has been more complex than a simple XX or XY binary.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variation-in-chromosome-number-in-humans">Variation in chromosome number in humans</h2>



<p>Most humans have a total of 46 (or 23 pairs) of chromosomes, but around 0.3% of people have a different number. This difference, known as aneuploidy, involves having extra or missing copies of one or more chromosomes. The most common forms of aneuploidy involve the sex chromosomes (X and Y). Some of these—including XXY (often associated with Klinefelter syndrome), XYY, and X (commonly linked to Turner syndrome)—are part of what is recognized today as intersex variation.*</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-ancient-dna-studies-failed-to-account-for-sex-chromosome-number-variation">Early ancient DNA studies failed to account for sex chromosome number variation</h2>



<p>In the early days of ancient DNA research, scientists typically assumed that all individuals had either two X chromosomes (XX) or one X and one Y chromosome (XY). These assumptions were built into standard methods for estimating genetic sex, which relied on the expected ratio of DNA sequences from the X and Y chromosomes. Any deviation from these expected patterns was often interpreted as contamination from modern DNA—such as from an archaeologist or lab technician who had handled the remains.</p>



<p>As a result, individuals with one X chromosome (Turner syndrome), three X chromosomes (Triple X syndrome), or an extra Y chromosome (XYY syndrome) could appear genetically indistinguishable from those with more common XX or XY patterns. Others—such as individuals with XXY chromosomes—might have been misclassified as contaminated.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="869" height="649" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Human_chromosomesXXY.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33997" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Human_chromosomesXXY.png 869w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Human_chromosomesXXY-300x224.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Human_chromosomesXXY-768x574.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 869px) 100vw, 869px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-updating-the-historical-record">Updating the historical record</h2>



<p>To address this limitation, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38212558/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a team of researchers in 2024</a> developed a new approach for estimating sex chromosome number in ancient individuals. Their method accounts for a wider range of possible sex chromosome combinations and makes it easier to distinguish genuine variation from contamination.</p>



<p>Using this new approach, the researchers identified five individuals from ancient Britain with sex chromosome aneuploidies. These included:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Three individuals (from the Iron Age through the post-Medieval period) with XXY chromosomes</li>



<li>One Early Medieval individual with XYY chromosomes</li>



<li>One Iron Age individual with a mosaic form of Turner syndrome, meaning they had only one X chromosome in some cells and two in others</li>
</ul>



<p>The researchers also applied their approach to non-sex chromosomes and identified a newborn from Early Medieval Britain with a trisomy of chromosome 21, consistent with Down syndrome.</p>



<p>Although the study examined only a subset of ancient individuals whose genomes have been sequenced, the discovery of multiple people with chromosomal aneuploidies highlights that this kind of biological variation has long been part of human history. It also underscores the importance of using inclusive analytical methods—rather than assuming that everyone fits neatly into an XX or XY binary.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of these newly added individuals**—or to hundreds of other historical individuals? The Historical Matches? feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p><em>*Not everyone with a sex chromosome variation identifies as intersex. The term “intersex” is used here in the broad biological sense, to acknowledge that some sex chromosome aneuploidies fall under this umbrella in contemporary discussions of human diversity.</em></p>



<p>**<em>Receiving a match to a historical individual who has a sex chromosome aneuploidy does not indicate anything about the number of sex chromosomes that you carry.</em></p>


New Historical Matches Highlight the Importance of Thinking Beyond an XX or XY Binary When Studying the Past


<p>In honor of World Redhead Day on May 26th, we are celebrating one of the most famous redheads in history: <strong>Erik the Red</strong>.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="339" height="480" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Eric_the_Red.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33944" style="width:314px;height:auto" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Eric_the_Red.png 339w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Eric_the_Red-212x300.png 212w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 339px) 100vw, 339px" /></figure>



<p>Born in Norway around 950 CE, Erik Thorvaldsson is best known as the Viking explorer who founded the first Norse settlements in Greenland. His distinctive red hair and strong-willed, fiery personality earned him the nickname &#8220;Erik the Red.&#8221;</p>



<p>Shortly after his birth, Erik’s family moved to Iceland after his father, Thorvald Asvaldsson, was banished from Norway for committing manslaughter. In 982 CE, Erik himself was exiled from Iceland for three years for similar reasons, prompting his expedition along Greenland’s coast, where he established several key Norse settlements, including Brattahlid, where he is said to have spent his later years.</p>



<p>Before leaving Iceland, Erik the Red married Thjodhild Jörundsdóttir, with whom he had several children, including the famed explorer Leif Erikson. Once in Greenland, Thjodhild converted to Christianity, a decision said to have caused tension in her marriage to Erik, who, according to the Icelandic sagas and Norse history, never adopted the faith.</p>



<p>Thjodhild is credited with building one of the first Christian churches in the Americas at the family’s farmstead in Brattahlid. In 2020, as part of a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32939067/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive study of the Viking world</a>, researchers sequenced the genomes of Viking Age individuals who were buried in a mass grave in the church’s cemetery. While the exact location of Erik the Red&#8217;s grave remains unknown, it is possible that he was among those buried there.</p>



<p>In honor of Erik the Red and World Redhead Day, we have added four new individuals from Brattahlid to our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature. If you are a 23andMe+ Premium™ member, you can check it out to learn more about this ancient site and find out if you are distantly related to them or hundreds of other historical individuals.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="690" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-1024x690.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-33945" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-1024x690.jpg 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-300x202.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-768x517.jpg 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-880x593.jpg 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky-1180x795.jpg 1180w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Red_Hair_Against_A_Blue_Sky.jpg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Erik The Red’s Home


<p><em><strong>Note:</strong> We&#8217;ve updated this post to reflect the addition of even more Genetic Groups in Eastern Europe.</em></p>



<p>We’re excited to announce an update to our 23andMe Ancestry Service adding greater detail for people with Eastern European ancestry. We recently introduced new Genetic Groups in Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia. We&#8217;ve now expanded our Genetic Groups in this region to include groups in Belarus, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;</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/2025/05/ee_cluster-1024x724.png" alt="Map of Genetic Groups in Eastern Europe." class="wp-image-33881" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ee_cluster-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ee_cluster-300x212.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ee_cluster-768x543.png 768w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ee_cluster-880x622.png 880w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ee_cluster-1180x834.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The update affects around 14 percent of our 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 <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>



<p>Central and Eastern Europe is a region rich in cultural and historical diversity. While these new Genetic Groups provide more granularity, not everyone whose ancestors came from this region will receive a match. In particular, those with Ashkenazi Jewish or Romani heritage are less likely to see one of these new Genetic Groups at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The 23andMe 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/european-diaspora-genetic-groups-update">European diasporas in North America and South Africa</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-french-german-us-canada">French and German Groups in North America</a>, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia">South Asia</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>New Genetic Groups added as part of this update:&nbsp;</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>8 new Genetic Groups in Belarus</li>



<li>17 new Genetic Groups in Czechia</li>



<li>5 new Genetic Groups in Estonia</li>



<li>6 new Genetic Groups in Hungary and nearby regions</li>



<li>3 new Genetic Groups in Latvia</li>



<li>11 new Genetic Groups in Lithuania</li>



<li>10 new Genetic Groups in Moldova and nearby regions</li>



<li>32 new Genetic Groups in Poland</li>



<li>24 new Genetic Groups in Russia</li>



<li>15 new Genetic Groups in Slovakia</li>



<li>9 new Genetic Groups in Slovenia</li>



<li>6 new Genetic Groups in&nbsp; Ukraine</li>
</ul>



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



<p></p>


New Genetic Groups in Eastern Europe

<p><span>This week we continue to follow the spread of the coronavirus. There is so much great reporting including what is one of the <a href="https://medium.com/@tomaspueyo/coronavirus-act-today-or-people-will-die-f4d3d9cd99ca">best overviews that we&#8217;ve seen</a> of the numbers and what they all might mean. <br /></span></p>
<p>Like most everyone, we will continue to follow the coverage of the outbreak, including an interesting illustration of how the virus hijacks cells that ran this week. We&#8217;re also reading up on some new research on the first migrants to the Americas, Neanderthal children, an experimental drug for Huntington&#8217;s, and a book about DNA testing upending a writer&#8217;s family.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Check them out.</p>
<h6>Earliest Americans</h6>
<p><span>Our understanding of the populating of the Americas is continuing to expand. The first people to reach the Americas may have come by sea, according to the latest research. They may have </span><a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/08/first-people-americas-came-sea-ancient-tools-unearthed-idaho-river-suggest"><span>arrived 16,000 years ago</span></a><span> or 3,000 years earlier than we previously believed. According to a study published recently in Science, radiocarbon dating of charcoal and bone fragments found along an Idaho river are altering what we once thought of the earliest Americans. In essence, they likely came by sea and then up rivers to populate inland areas. Previously scientists believed that the Clovis people were the first to populate the Americas, arriving about 13,000 years ago.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h6>Brutish, Short and Cold</h6>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-300x300.png" alt="" class="alignright wp-image-25340 size-medium" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-300x300.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-271x271.png 271w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-372x372.png 372w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal-574x574.png 574w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/neanderthal.png 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><br /><span>Life may or may not have been nasty, brutish, and short of Neanderthals, but new research shows that it was indeed </span><a href="https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/4/10/eaau9483"><span>cold and challenging</span></a><span>. Researchers from the University of Brisbane in Australia used the enamel of teeth recovered from the bones of two Neanderthal children excavated from a cave in France to piece together some details of their lives. Published in the journal </span><i><span>Science</span></i><span>, the study found that these children endured harsher winters when compared to teeth of modern human children who lived in Europe about 5,000 years ago. The Neanderthal children were also exposed to lead, which makes this study the </span><a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2018/10/neanderthal-children-shivered-and-suffered-ancient-europe"><span>earliest known documentation of lead exposure </span></a><span>among hominins. </span></p>
<h6><span>Haunted by a Gene</span></h6>
<p><span>In a profound article in the</span><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/10/health/huntingtons-disease-wexler.html?utm_source=STAT+Newsletters&#038;utm_campaign=35e3fb3f4b-MR_COPY_01&#038;utm_medium=email&#038;utm_term=0_8cab1d7961-35e3fb3f4b-129845433"> <i><span>New York Times</span></i></a><span>, the reporter Denis Grady tells the story of Nancy Wexler, Ph.D., a noted researcher, and professor of neuropsychology at Columbia University. Wexler has been studying Huntington&#8217;s, a rare and devastating fatal disease. Wexler saw the illness claim her mother&#8217;s life. That pushed her to research the illness, and over the last few decades, she&#8217;s been involved in research of an extended Venezuelan family with Huntington&#8217;s. More recently she&#8217;s revealed that she too suffers from the condition. Her work and the work of others have helped to contribute to the development of an</span><span> experimental drug</span><span> by Roche to treat the disease. Her story is also included in a segment of the PBS documentary</span><a href="https://www.pbs.org/video/nancy-wexler-a-huntingtons-odyssey-u4bvln/"> <i><span>The Gene: An Intimate Histor</span></i></a><i><span>y</span></i><span> airing in Apri</span><span>l.</span></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" width="512" height="332" src="https://player.pbs.org/viralplayer/3039485164/" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" seamless="" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<h6><span>Lost Family</span></h6>
<p><span>Regardless of whether or not you’ve taken a DNA test, it’s no secret that taking a DNA test has changed everything for many. </span><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/03/books/review/lost-family-libby-copeland.html"><span>The New York Times</span></a><span> published a review this past week on a new book called “Lost Family: How DNA testing is upending who we are,” where author Libby Copeland explores the consequences &#8212; intended or not — of people’s decision to send in saliva samples to have their DNA tested. </span></p>
<h6><span>Hijackers<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus-300x168.png" alt="" class="alignright wp-image-28040 size-medium" width="300" height="168" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus-300x168.png 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CDC-Image-of-Coronavirus.png 512w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></span></h6>
<p><span>In a series of fascinating graphic illustrations, </span><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/03/11/science/how-coronavirus-hijacks-your-cells.html"><span>The New York Times</span></a><span> depicts the process of how the spiky-looking novel coronavirus hijacks cells, inserts a snippet of its viral RNA and then causes the infected cell to spread millions of copies of the virus into the human body. But the explainer ends on a hopeful note: The last visual shows how soap molecules destroys the virus by prying it apart.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Earliest Americans, Lost Families and a Haunting Gene

<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-231" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/istock_000005569535xsmall-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" srcset="https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/istock_000005569535xsmall-300x225.jpg 300w, https://blog.pub.us-west-2.prd.23andme.us/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/istock_000005569535xsmall.jpg 400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />One of the most exciting aspects of archaeology is how new research can alter previously held notions about prehistoric events.</p>
<p>One of the most hotly debated events is the peopling of the Americas. Theories on the timing and specifics of the arrival of the first Americans are continuously modified as new evidence from fossil, paleoclimatic, and genetic records is examined.</p>
<h2>First to the New World</h2>
<p>A study in last month’s <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/2008/03/07/the-amazing-journey-a-new-synthesis-for-the-peopling-of-america/"><em>American Journal of Human Genetics</em></a> argued for an ancient and fast migration of prehistoric humans across the Bering Strait and down the Pacific Coast based on a genetic analysis of present-day Native Americans. That study was provocative because it significantly pushed back the arrival date of humans to the New World to 18,000 years ago from the previous estimate of 13,000 years.</p>
<p>Now, results from a new study in this week’s <em>Science</em> further bolster that theory, using the prevalence of preserved seaweed as an indicator.</p>
<p>Anthropologists at Vanderbilt University excavated a South American archaeological site, Monte Verde II. In southern Chile, Monte Verde II is midway between the Pacific Coast and the Andes mountains. It dates to approximately 14,600 years ago, making it one of the oldest archaeological sites in the New World. The age of Monte Verde II, combined with its extreme southern location, lends additional support to the hypothesis of an early arrival of humans into South America.</p>
<h2>Seaweed</h2>
<p>The sheer abundance of preserved seaweed in various huts at Monte Verde II lends additional support for the initial migration occurring down the Pacific Coast rather than further inland. Seaweed is an incredibly fragile material and does not preserve well. However, remains of seaweed are found all over Monte Verde II. The authors think the seaweed was probably used extensively for food and medicinal purposes, which still continues in present-day coastal communities.</p>
<p>The presence of some foods from inland areas indicates that the inhabitants of Monte Verde also traveled inland at some point during the year or else mingled with other communities that did so.</p>
<p>So, how do these findings help us to understand the earliest inhabitants of the Americas? Most importantly, this study supports the idea that the first Americans traveled down the length of the Americas via the Pacific Coast. However, it also shows that there seems to be some relationship between coastal communities, such as Monte Verde, and those more inland groups.</p>
<p>In fact, the authors of this study use this possible relationship to propose a slight variation on the theme of a coastal migration route, saying that the first inhabitants may have taken a slower journey down the coast, spreading out in the interior along the way. Although this hypothesis needs additional support, it is clear that the debate on the people of the Americas is far from over.</p>

Americas