| HRA011606
(Controlled Access)
|
We generate whole genome data for 23 individuals from the Late Neolithic to the Bronze-Iron Age. We find that Yangshao-related ancestry from the Central Plains constituted a major component of the genetic profile of prehistoric inhabitants. During the Late Neolithic period, the Yellow River Bend population has received a minimal but indispensable genetic contribution from the northern Mongolian Steppe. Meanwhile, this Late Neolithic population presented an unexpectedly substantial genetic influence from southern China, which remains throughout the Bronze-Iron Age at the region. This suggests the existence of a long-distance gene exchange between northern and southern China. Overall, our study underscores the intricate and prolonged ancient population interactions between the Central Plains, the Steppe and southern China at the Yellow River Bend over the past 5000 years. |
