Implications of the role of Southeastern Europe in the origins and diffusion of major Eurasian paternal lineages

Abstract

The aim of this study is to give an overview of the extent and nature of Southeastern Europe (SEE) paternal genetic variation in relation to potential episodes of gene flow during dispersals of the Upper Paleolithic and Neolithic. A survey based on studies of the paternal gene pool of the region revealed consistency with the typical European paternal gene pool, as five major haplogroups E3b1, I1b*, J2, R1a, and R1b contribute more than 70% to the total genetic variation in SEE. Comprehensive characterization and dating of major paternal lineages imply that SEE has been both an important source and recipient of gene flow.