Diversité génétique des chevaux anciens et modernes de l'Altaï et des territoires adjacents

A groundbreaking study reveals genetic continuity between ancient and modern horses across the Mongolian Altai and adjacent regions, tracing potential migration routes. Researchers analyzed mitochondrial, nuclear, and microbial DNA from archaeological horse remains spanning multiple cultures (Biiken, Pazyryk, Turkic, Khereksur, Deer Stone, Xiongnu) and modern breeds using high-throughput sequencing. Key findings include close genetic links between ancient Altai horses and modern Central Asian/Middle Eastern breeds, as well as between Mongolian Late Bronze–Early Iron Age horses and Chinese local breeds. The study also identifies pathogenic microbes in Eneolithic–Early Middle Ages samples and confirms the Pontic-Caspian steppe as the likely center of horse domestication, not Altai. These insights highlight the region's significance for ancient DNA research and cultural exchanges.

Kusliy, M. Genetic diversity of ancient and modern horses of Altai and adjacent territories. https://doi.org/10.70675/968eb4a6z2e82z48fezbd50z8ce8e9b875e5