individuals

A groundbreaking international study has compiled the largest and most comprehensive genomic dataset of Indigenous American populations to date. Published in the journal Nature, the research sequenced 128 high-coverage whole genomes from individuals across eight Latin American countries, shedding new light on the complex evolutionary history, unique genetic diversity, and health implications for Indigenous peoples. The study reveals over a million previously unknown genetic variants and uncovers a hidden third wave of migration into South America. The research, part of the Indigenous American Genomic Diversity Project, combined newly sequenced genomes with existing databases to analyze a total of 199 contemporary Indigenous individuals from 53 populations, alongside ancient DNA data. This unprecedented effort aims to address the historical underrepresentation of Indigenous