ADAM Johanne

Directors : Evelyne Heyer, Raphaëlle Chaix and Laure Ségurel

Our research project focuses on the genetic adaptation of human populations in Inner Asia and Southeast Asia. We aim to understand how ecological and cultural constraints have shaped the evolutionary history of these populations over millennia. This project is particularly significant due to the limited studies conducted in these regions compared to Western Europe and East Asia.

Objectives

• Explore adaptive events in under-studied regions of Inner Asia and Southeast Asia.
• Investigate local adaptations to climate, diet, and pathogens
• Analyze both monogenic and polygenic modes of selection to provide a comprehensive understanding of genetic adaptation.

Methodology

Our study utilizes extensive datasets from various populations in Inner Asia and Southeast Asia. These datasets include genetic samples from different subsistence groups, such as herders, hunter-gatherers, and farmers. The project involves multiple stages, including quality control, analysis using advanced computational tools and development of methods adapted to the data..

Key findings

• Local Adaptations: We identified several adaptive events related to climate at a local scale
• Continental Adaptations: We also highlighted multuple adaptive events that are shared across the Asian continent. 

Conclusion

This project sheds light on the adaptive history of human populations in Asia, highlighting the diverse evolutionary pressures faced by these populations. By expanding our understanding of genetic adaptation beyond the well-studied regions of Western Europe and East Asia, we provide a more comprehensive picture of human evolution and resilience.