Central Asian population genetics and natural selection

Ancient DNA has revolutionized the study of the human past, providing unprecedented insights into ancient migrations and interactions among populations. Central Asia, due to its geographic location between Europe and Asia, has seen experienced diverse human and hominin migrations, which have been a focus of genetic, archaeological, linguistic, and historical research. Recent advances in population genetics have revealed the complex ancestry of Central Asian groups, both modern and ancient. Significant progress has also been made in understanding the role of natural selection in shaping genetic variation across the region. In this talk, I will present recent developments in our knowledge of Central Asia’s genetic history, integrating findings from both modern and ancient genomic studies. Additionally, I will highlight the selective pressures that have influenced the genomes of Central Asians through time, shedding light on the dynamic interplay between admixture, adaptation, and cultural change.