New Ancestry Study May Revolutionize Future Medicine

SCIENCE

By Aniket Chakraborty May 12, 2025 Arrow

For years, experts believed Japan’s people descended from just the Jomon and East Asian farmers.

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But now, scientists say there's a third ancestral group—northeast Asia’s Emishi people.

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The study sequenced 3,200 full genomes, offering an ultra-detailed genetic map of Japan.

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Researchers found Jomon DNA dominates Okinawa, while western Japan leans toward Han Chinese roots.

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Emishi ancestry was strongest in Japan’s northeast, confirming complex migration patterns.

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The project also revealed rare variants linked to diseases—like diabetes, cancer, and heart issues.

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Ancient genes from Neanderthals and Denisovans were found in regions tied to illness risk.

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The JEWEL database created in the study could lead to more precise, personalized treatment.

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Japan’s genetic future may now shape Asia’s next chapter in medical science and identity.

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