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Skhalyakho R., Zaporozhchenko V. DNA Genealogical Communities as a Central Hub for Exchanging Information on Human Molecular Diversity

R. Skhalyakho
Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography (Kunstkamera) of the RAS
St. Petersburg, Russia
ORCID: 0000-0002-4005-1887
E-mail: skhalyakho.roza@yandex.ru

 

V. Zaporozhchenko
Vavilov Institute of General Genetics of the RAS
Moscow, Russia
ORCID: 0000-0003-4649-1602
E-mail: valeryz2001@gmail.com

 

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ABSTRACT. Over the past 25 years, molecular genealogy has become more closely integrated into scientific research. Initially, it primarily addressed the interests of citizen scientists, who employed multiple DNA markers to seek biological validation for historical hypotheses. With reductions in whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing costs, commercial genotyping now accounts for a substantial share of sequenced human genomes. Particularly significant are collaborative projects involving genealogy enthusiasts and scientists, who collect population samples and administer questionnaires. The outcomes of these initiatives benefit both scientific disciplines, including medicine, and the participants by providing precise insights into human biological characteristics. In light of the general decline in public trust in the scientific community following the COVID-19 pandemic, the interaction between molecular science and society may help restore trust and disseminate genetic knowledge through effective, evidence-based genealogical problem-solving. This article presents a concise overview of the history of molecular genealogy, its development in Russia, and key resources and platforms. Communities, both internationally and domestically, are categorized by their interests into regional, family-based groups, and those based on specific genetic markers. As discussed, molecular-genealogical communities foster scientific literacy and support a contemporary understanding of group identity.

 

KEYWORDS: molecular genealogy, DNA, sequencing, genome, population genetics, DNA projects

 

DOI 10.31250/2618-8600-2026-2(32)-188-209
UDC 575+929.5

 

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