The National Geographic Genographic Project

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Most of us have wondered about our ancient origins. Perhaps we had ancestors who lived in Africa, Asia or the Middle East thousands of years ago. Until recently, there was no way to retrace the steps of those who walked the earth so long ago. The good news is that we have been carrying the history of our ancestors within us all along, in our DNA.
 
The National Geographic Society Genographic Project aims to map the migratory history of the entire human species since its original migration from Africa 50,000 to 60,000 years ago. This five-year study, led by Dr. Spencer Wells uses DNA samples donated by hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.
 
Since most of us are of mixed genetic origin, the Genograpic Project by the National Geographic Society takes many samples from indigenous populations who have been more isolated. This study is privately funded and not for profit. Key collaborators include:
  • IBM
  • National Geographic Society
  • Waitt Family Foundation.

Using DNA Markers to Trace Migration

Children inherit half their DNA from each parent. Most of the genetic material from the parents recombines to create a completely unique child. Only two genetic components remain almost unchanged over the generations because they do not recombine with any other genes. These are:
  • mitochondrial DNA, inherited only maternally
  • Y chromosomes, passed only from fathers to sons.
Over time, random mutations occur naturally in mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosomes. These usually harmless mutations are called markers. Once a marker has been identified, scientists can trace it back to its very first appearance. In this way, it can be determined when each new human lineage began. Every lineage, or branch of humanity, is called a haplogroup.
 
The Genographic Project

Collecting and Understanding DNA

Obtaining genetic samples is easy and painless. The National Geographic Genographic Project collects genetic material by swabbing the inside of the cheek. The material is then studied and analyzed using cutting edge computer technologies and advanced genetic understanding.

Results of the National Geographic Genographic Project

With the Genographic Project, National Geographic is purely motivated by a desire to understand the history of human migration. All genetic material gathered is used only for that purpose. Participants remain completely anonymous. This project is classified as:
  • non-commercial
  • non-medical
  • non-political
  • non-profit.
All results will be available to the public after scientific peer publication.

Becoming Part of the Project

The National Geographic Genographic Project is not limited to indigenous populations. Anyone can submit a genetic sample and be part of this ground breaking study. If you would like to participate, you can purchase a DNA collection kit for $99.95 plus shipping and handling. Proceeds from the sale of these kits will fund additional research and be donated to the Legacy Project, an organization which helps indigenous cultures.
 
After you send your cheek swab to the project's laboratory site in Arizona, you will be able to track your results on the Genographic Project Web site. On the site, you can view a world map of human migration, and the origins of your unique genetic profile. As more genetic material is collected, web results will become more detailed.
 
Resources
 
National Geographic Society (2008). Global gene project to trace humanity's migrations. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the National Geographic Society Web site: news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2005/04/0413_050413_genographic_2.html.
 
National Geographic Society (2008). The genographic project. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the National Geographic Society Web site: www3.nationalgeographic.com/
genographic/.
 
The New York Times Company (2008). The genographic project, part 1. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from The New York Times Web site: video.on.nytimes.com/?fr_story=b245b7b7b36eb89406d5037a0b7099b235fa1b3e.