The Hindu Business Line : National Geographic, IBM to track human family tree

THE National Geographic Society and IBM have announced the launch of a research initiative that will trace the migratory history of the human species.

The Genographic Project, a five-year research partnership, will use computer analysis of DNA contributed by members of the general public to map how the Earth was populated.

Led by the National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, Dr Spencer Wells, a team of international scientists and IBM researchers will collect genetic samples, analyse results and report on the genetic roots of modern humans.

With funding from the Waitt Family Foundation, the scientists will establish 10 centres around the world and will study more than 100,000 DNA samples from indigenous populations. The project is expected to reveal details about global human migratory history and connections and differences that make up the human species.

"We see this as the `moon shot' of anthropology, using genetics to fill in the gaps in our knowledge of human history. Our DNA carries a story that is shared by everyone. Over the next five years we will be deciphering that story, which is now in danger of being lost as people migrate and mix to a much greater extent than they have in the past," Dr Wells said in a statement.

"National Geographic has been exploring and mapping the world for 117 years. We hope this ambitious and important project will increase our understanding and appreciation of our shared history. The field science work, so generously supported by the Waitt Family Foundation, will go into a virtual museum of human history," said Mr John Fahey, President and CEO of National Geographic Society.

The Genographic Project has three core components:

Field research — Collecting DNA samples and field research with indigenous populations. An international advisory board will oversee the selection of indigenous populations for testing and research protocols;

Public participation and awareness campaign — The public can take part by purchasing a participation kit and submitting their own cheek swab samples;

Genographic legacy project — Proceeds from the sale of kits will help fund future field research and a legacy project, which will build on National Geographic's focus on world cultures. The legacy project will support education and cultural preservation projects, among participating indigenous groups.

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