Ancient DNA reveals the population interactions and a Neolithic patrilineal community in Northern Yangtze Region

Tingyu Yang, Jianing He, Chunmei Li, Chao Ning, Tianming Zhang, Jincheng Wang, Hai Zhang, Guanbo Wang, Xiaowen Jia, Chi Zhang (), Shi Yan, Xiannian Zhang, Fan Wu, Chaodong Wu, Xiaohong Wu (), Yuhong Pang () and Yanyi Huang ()
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Tingyu Yang: Peking University
Jianing He: Peking University
Chunmei Li: Peking University
Chao Ning: Peking University
Tianming Zhang: Peking University
Jincheng Wang: Peking University
Hai Zhang: Peking University
Guanbo Wang: Peking University
Xiaowen Jia: Peking University
Chi Zhang: Peking University
Shi Yan: Minzu University of China
Xiannian Zhang: Peking University
Fan Wu: Peking University
Chaodong Wu: Peking University
Xiaohong Wu: Peking University
Yuhong Pang: Peking University
Yanyi Huang: Peking University

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract The scarcity of ancient genomes of early rice cultivators has hindered our understanding of their genetic profiles and dynamic interactions with millet cultivators. In this study, we analyzed 58 ancient genomes from Baligang, a long-term settlement situated on the northern rim of the Middle Yangtze River Basin, spanning from the Middle Neolithic to the Late Bronze Age. This chronostratified genetic dataset offers comprehensive genomic insights into populations engaged in early rice cultivation, enhancing our understanding of East Asian demographic history. Our study revealed that Baligang experienced successive waves of admixture over time, with ~4,200 BP as a critical transition point, marked by a significant genomic influx of southern East Asian populations. We also identify the detailed kinship relations within multi-generational secondary burial and the existence of patrilineal communities dating back five millennia, offering fresh perspectives on early social structure in prehistoric China.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63743-1

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