The genetic history of East Asians: a genetic genealogy perspective

Human population genetic studies are divided into genetic genealogy and population genetics distinguished by their scientific questions and research methodologies. Over the past two decades, extensive research in of genetic genealogy research, the genetic history of East Asians has been comprehensively investigated. This review systematically analyzes phylogenetic trees constructed from mitochondrial DNA and Y-chromosome haplogroups to examine the origins, migration routes, and admixture histories of major ethnic groups, including Sino-Tibetan, Hmong-Mien, Kra-Dai, and Austronesian populations, revealing the dynamic mechanisms of their interactions and admixture with neighboring groups. Genetic genealogy not only provides a molecular perspective on the evolutionary pathways of East Asians but also establishes new methodological frameworks for anthropological, archaeological, and historical research. Through single-dimensional genetic analysis, which focuses on uniparental markers, offers an effective approach to deciphering the complex genetic structure of populations. This research is crucial for understanding the formation of East Asian civilizations and population dispersal patterns.