The genome of the Brazilian population has been deciphered for the first time in an international study published in the journal Science. Conducted by the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain and the University of São Paulo, the research delved into the African, Native American, and European ancestries that make up the Brazilian population, known for having the highest level of recent genetic admixture in the world.
The study, part of the “DNA do Brasil” project, generated 2,723 high-coverage complete genomes from diverse Brazilian regions, revealing over 8 million previously unknown genetic variants. These variants include ones potentially harmful to health, shedding light on the genetic determinants of the population’s health.
The research identified genetic variants linked to heart diseases, obesity, and infectious diseases such as malaria, hepatitis, and flu. Furthermore, the study highlighted genetic variants associated with increased fertility, immune response, and metabolism, suggesting the influence of natural selection on the Brazilian population’s genetic profile.
Brazil’s genetic diversity reflects its tumultuous history since the 15th century, with European colonization leading to the loss of native populations and the forced displacement of Africans to the country. The study found more African ancestry in the north and more European ancestry in the south of Brazil, with most individuals displaying a mix of European, African, and indigenous ancestry.
The genetic dataset also revealed a pattern of selective mating, where individuals tended to reproduce within their own ethnic groups in recent generations. This complex social and ethnic network that has evolved over 500 years is reflected in the genetic makeup of the Brazilian population.
The study emphasized the importance of studying the genetic diversity of indigenous American populations, which are among the least-studied groups in the world. By examining the genomes of modern-day admixed populations, researchers were able to recover part of the genetic diversity of these indigenous populations.
Overall, mapping the genetics of Brazil not only contributes to improving the health of its population but also provides insights into human evolution and the complex history of the country. The new genomic database opens up opportunities for further research on the cultural melting pot that is Brazil, where a rich history is written in its genes.
