05 August 2007

Mapping Middle East DNA

Dr. Hsien-Hsien Lei's recent Eye On DNA blog postings points out a new agreement signed by Dubai's Eastern Biotech & Life Sciences to be part of the National Geographic Society's Genographic Project via Family Tree DNA.

"They plan to create a database for the Middle Eastern population. Y-DNA and mtDNA tests are offered at DNAancestry.ae although much of the information there is a duplicate from Family Tree DNA and not specific to Middle Eastern populations."

Hsien wonders "if knowledge of genetic similarities and differences between these countries could influence their relationships with one another - for the better or for the worse."

The Middle East generally includes the following countries, although some may argue that several are really Asia/Central Asia: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous4:15 AM

    Eastern Biotech & Life Sciences is proud to announce its association with Family Tree DNA to allow the Middle eastern population to be tested for genealogical and ancestral purposes.Family Tree DNA is the world leader and pioneer in the growing field of Genetic Genealogy. Having the largest databases in this area, with over 150,000 records, Family Tree DNA has been constantly developing the science that enables many genealogists around the world to advance their families research.This association will add a new dimension and important level of diversity to the data being collected from the growing numbers of individuals that are seeking to know more about their origins and family relationships.Eastern Biotech & Life Sciences started the journey with its incorporation as a corporate entity under Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech), since 2005 and commenced its commercial operations on April,2006. They provide world-class health care services to a global customer base, combining continual innovation with over 50 years’ experience. Its vision is to promote the health of the people of the United Arab Emiratesand the region through the introduction of biotechnological products and systems, and through research into the diseases relevant to this region, especially Genetic Disorders, Obesity, Diabetes and Heart diseases. EasternBiotech & Life Sciences has put in place a vast distribution network covering the length and breadth of the Middle East.

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  2. Thank you for writing. Those of us with particular interests in DNA and genetic genealogy will certainly be looking forward to learning more.

    Schelly

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