Using Mitochondrial DNA to Study Human Evolutionary Migration Patterns

Using Mitochondrial DNA to Study Human Evolutionary Migration Patterns

Alvin Sherman Library 2053

By examining differences within the control region of mitochondrial DNA, this research project attempts to link individuals to one of three original human migratory groups (L1, L2, and L3 haplogroups) originating in Africa. From previous research, it has been determined that the L1 and L2 haplogroups stayed in Africa and the L3 haplogroup spread out and eventually populated the rest of world. From the L3 haplogroup, many additional haplogroups can be identified (based on additional point mutations). DNA samples were obtained from vo lunteers through a mouthwash DNA extraction procedure. All subjects signed a consent form. The successful extraction of DNA was confirmed using Sybr Green dye and UV light. Once the DNA has been successfully isolated, the particular sequence of the mitochondrial control region containing the mutational difference between the L1/L2 and L3 human lineage can be targeted using specific primers and amplified following standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedures. The PCR products will be cut with a particular restriction enzyme, HpaI, which targets the mutational difference between the L1/L2 haplotype and the L3 haplotype. The size of the fragments provides the distinction between the L3 haplotype and the other two haplotypes. Additional tests with other primers and restriction enzymes can then be used to further differentiate whether a sample contains the L1 or the L2 haplotype marker. If a person from our small sample group of NSU students has the L3 haplotype we would hypothesize the person to have been descended from one of the tribes of Africa that migrated out of Africa approximately 90,000 years ago. If the L1 or L2 haplotype is detected we would hypothesize that the person is more likely to have been descended from peoples who remained in Western and Eastern Africa.