An ancient mitochondrial DNA approach to explore pre-Columbian inhabitants ancestry at Paquimé, Casas Grandes

Summary

The genetic analysis of different periods in specific spatial territories could contribute to understand patterns of interactions for pre-Columbian populations that lived in northwest Mexico. Especially for those sites that show debated cultural traits such as Paquimé, the use of all possible bioarchaeological approaches may be key to identify their population ancestry, affinities, and to evaluate possible migrants origin. This research analyzes ancient mitochondrial DNA, HVI and HVII, of 14 individuals from Paquimé to assess their biological affinities in contrast with ancient DNA reports from southwestern United States and southern Mexican populations. The corresponding achievements and challenges of this method for these specific samples will be exposed. This research’s intention is to contribute to the understanding of theoretical patterns of migration and/or cultural fusion populations through contrasting material culture evidence of social changes and genetic consequences, especially for the Medio Period.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)   •
• Current Bioarchaeological Research in the Casas Grandes Region

Keywords

Spatial Coverage