DERI Seminar with Gerard Serra-Vidal, Living DNA

When: Thursday, July 4, 2024, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Zoom

Speaker: Gerard Serra-Vidal, Anthropologist & Population Geneticist at Living DNA

Zoom link: https://qmul-ac-uk.zoom.us/j/81148100921

Title: A Deep Dive Into Ancestry DNA Testing

Abstract: Advancements in ancestry DNA testing have revolutionised our understanding of genetic heritage, providing detailed insights into historical origins. Ancestry testing includes mitochondrial (mtDNA), Y-chromosome (Y), and autosomal (atDNA) testing, which are used to trace family connections and genetic lineage. We have recently developed new admixture methods, particularly the addition of Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) to Non-Negative Least Squares (NNLS) models to analyse chromosome painting outputs. These advancements significantly enhance the accuracy of regional ancestry assignments and percentage estimations, demonstrating continuous methodological improvement and refinement of reference panels. Our reference population panels, constructed through fineSTRUCTURE clustering, have notably improved ancestry breakdowns in regions like the British Isles and Africa. We have also included ancient DNA analysis to our product portfolio. These methods allow for tracing back ancestry to ancient groups such as Neanderthals, Denisovans, and classical civilisations including Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and Vikings. These innovations in ancestry DNA testing, driven by interdisciplinary collaboration and data science, provide insights about human history and individual genetic heritage.

Bio: Gerard obtained a MSc in Bioinformatics and a PhD in Human Genetics at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology (UPF-CSIC) in Barcelona. He joined Living DNA in 2019, where he has worked on several scientific projects such as the building of an African panel, and the Viking, Classical and Neanderthal ancestry inference method.