MyHeritage Launches Ancient Origins: Expanding the Horizons of Genetic Ethnicity Analysis
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MyHeritage introduces "Ancient Origins," enhancing its DNA testing with insights from ancient populations like Romans, Vikings, and Egyptians. Partnering with Illustrative DNA, the product uses advanced archaeogenetics to trace origins back 10,000 years, offering detailed reports and AI-generated avatars.
MyHeritage, the leading global platform for family history and DNA testing, today unveils its latest innovation, Ancient Origins—a premium product that enhances the company’s established DNA ethnicity reports.
This new offering enables customers to trace their heritage up to 10,000 years into the past, connecting them with ancient populations including Imperial Romans, Norse Vikings, Phoenicians, and Ancient Egyptians.
Ancient Origins represents a significant development in the field of genetic genealogy. Unlike traditional DNA ethnicity reports that provide insights based on a few hundred years of history, this product delves deep into the past.
It employs the latest advances in archaeogenetics to compare a user’s DNA with ancient DNA samples and populations spanning from the Neolithic Period through to the late Middle Ages. As a result, customers receive a comprehensive report that details the ancient populations from which they descend.
Collaborative innovation with illustrative DNA
The launch of Ancient Origins marks a new partnership between MyHeritage and Illustrative DNA, a startup recognised for its pioneering work in ancient ethnicity analysis. This collaboration integrates advanced scientific research with cutting-edge technology.
“DNA testing is a rapidly evolving source of fascination for millions of people worldwide,” says Gilad Japhet, Founder and CEO of MyHeritage.
The partnership leverages Illustrative DNA’s expertise, ensuring that users benefit from the latest findings in archaeogenetics.
“We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with MyHeritage,” say Esad Zahid Özcan and Samet Mermer, co-founders of Illustrative DNA.
Advanced technology and detailed reporting
Ancient Origins utilises advanced DNA extraction techniques to analyse human samples excavated from archaeological sites across the globe. Scientists date these samples and identify DNA segments and genetic markers that have endured for thousands of years, or even longer.
By incorporating the location, time period, and additional archaeological evidence, researchers associate these samples with ancient civilisations. Many of these findings are published in scientific papers, and the samples are made publicly available, ensuring that the analysis is rooted in established research.
The product generates comprehensive reports that include:
- Percentage Breakdown: A detailed percentage allocation of an individual’s ancient genetic origins across various historical eras.
- Hunter-Gatherer and Early Farmer Contributions: Insights into the proportion of DNA that traces back to early human societies.
- Advanced Comparative Analysis: Identification of the ancient populations that are most genetically similar to the user.
- Visual Mapping: Principal Component Analysis (PCA) maps that illustrate genetic proximity to ancient populations.
- Encyclopaedia of Ancient Populations: An extensive reference that covers groups such as the Canaanites, Scythians, Visigoths, Etruscans, the Yellow River civilisation, Ancient Greeks, Insular Celts, Ancient Bantus, Central Amerindians, and Ashkenazi Jews of the Middle Ages, among others.
Furthermore, MyHeritage incorporates an innovative feature using generative AI to create avatars representing many of the ancient populations. These AI avatars appear in animated videos that narrate the story of each civilisation, offering a dynamic and engaging way for users to connect with their deep-rooted heritage.
Accessibility and future developments
Ancient Origins is available to all MyHeritage DNA customers, provided they give explicit consent for the analysis. The service is offered as a premium feature and requires a MyHeritage Complete or Omni subscription. Customers who have already subscribed may receive the Ancient Origins reports at no additional cost. The product is accessible via desktop and mobile web, with plans to extend support to the MyHeritage mobile app in the near future.
This new feature not only enriches the genetic testing experience but also provides a more nuanced understanding of one’s ancestry. By bridging the gap between modern DNA analysis and ancient genetic research, Ancient Origins paves the way for a deeper appreciation of cultural heritage and historical identity.
About MyHeritage
MyHeritage stands as the leading global platform for family history, dedicated to helping individuals uncover more about themselves and their place in the world. With a robust suite of intuitive products, access to billions of historical records, an affordable at-home DNA test, and AI-powered photo tools, MyHeritage offers a rich and engaging discovery experience. The platform, which is available in 42 languages, boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing DNA databases, with 8.8 million customers. Through its commitment to privacy and innovative technology, MyHeritage continues to lead the field in consumer DNA testing and genealogical research.
Pallavi Singal is the Vice President of Content at ztudium, where she leads innovative content strategies and oversees the development of high-impact editorial initiatives. With a strong background in digital media and a passion for storytelling, Pallavi plays a pivotal role in scaling the content operations for ztudium’s platforms, including Businessabc, Citiesabc, and IntelligentHQ, Wisdomia.ai, MStores, and many others. Her expertise spans content creation, SEO, and digital marketing, driving engagement and growth across multiple channels. Pallavi’s work is characterised by a keen insight into emerging trends in business, technologies like AI, blockchain, metaverse and others, and society, making her a trusted voice in the industry.
