Scientists to investigate genetic history of Britons
Scientists in the UK are to carry out a two million GBP (3 million euro) study into the genetic make-up of the British people. It has long been presumed that the genetics of today's Britons reflect the documented invasions of Vikings, Saxons and Celts at various points in history. However, the new study will use DNA samples to determine to what extent each set of invaders has influenced the make-up of the UK's regional populations. Researchers will take blood from those living in rural communities in all parts of Great Britain. Urban populations will not be invited to participate as they are 'already far too mixed up for us to be able to tease out their genetic roots,' said project leader Sir Walter Bodmer. Those living in the countryside have seen much less in the way of genetic input from others over the past century. The data will not only be used to create a genetic history. DNA analysis will also provide information on disease patterns, including for Alzheimer's, heart disease and diabetes. The results could also, therefore, provide researchers with the knowledge to identify people at risk of falling victim to certain diseases. The project follows a recent and similar study in Scotland's Orkney Islands. The islands were controlled by the Vikings between 800 and 1300 AD, but it was not known whether the Vikings arrived as 'total' colonisers (with their wives and families), or whether the Viking men settled down with local women. DNA provided the answer. By looking at mitochondrial, which is passed on only by mothers, and then the Y chromosome, inherited only from fathers, researchers were able to establish that the Viking invaders took local brides. The mitochondrial DNA of Orkney people was found to be similar to that of people in the rest of Britain, while the Y chromosomes of Orkney men were found to be Scandinavian.
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