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Geographical and social influences on genetic diversity within the Egyptian population: analyses of Alu insertion polymorphisms |
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| Authors: | Abdel Halim Salem Raoudha Bahri Hamdi Jarjanazi Hassen Chaabani |
| Institution: | 1. Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University PO Box 22979 ManamaBahrain;2. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University PO Box 41111 IsmailiaEgypt;3. Laboratory of Human Genetics and Anthropology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir 5000 MonastirTunisia;4. Ontario Ministry of the Environment 125 Resources Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M9P 3V6Canada |
| Abstract: | Background: The geographical location of Egypt at the crossroads of several major cultural areas between North Africa and the Middle East has contributed to its population history. Aim: To analyse the genetic structure of the population living in two geographical parts of Egypt. Subjects and methods: A sample of 112 Egyptians from the North African part of Egypt (Ismailia sample) and a sample of 52 Egyptians from the Asian part Sinai, have been analysed using 10 Alu insertion polymorphisms. Results: The results of the present study showed a significant genetic difference between the Sinai and Ismailia samples. The latter showed an evident genetic affinity with North African populations; whereas the Sinai sample was found to be genetically closer to the Middle East populations. The Sinai sample showed a low average heterozygosity, unlike that found in the Ismailia sample. Conclusion: This study provides new insights into the genetic structure of the Egyptian population living in a land bridge between Africa and Asia. Results suggest a genetic discontinuity between the Sinai population and that of the North African part of Egypt. This discontinuity would have been maintained thanks to geo-climatic and social factors. |
| Keywords: | Alu insertions Egyptian population genetic diversity geographical and social influences |