A primer on the population genetic analysis of ancient genomes

Abstract

The genetic analysis of ancient biological remains is increasingly relying on next generation sequencing and genome-wide data it produces. In addition to bioinformatics processing of high-throughput data produced by next generation sequencing, downstream population genetic analyses are critical to fully utilize rich evolutionary information stored in genomic variation data. In this chapter, I summarize representative population genetic methods that are applied to genome-wide data from ancient sources, such as mummies. They aim at detecting genetic relatives, overviewing the genetic profile of the analyzed individuals in the context of worldwide genetic diversity, and formally testing population relationship. For each method, I outline its general principle and provide practical guidance for conducting it.