The shared genetic continuity of Persians has been preserved for five thousand years

Based on this study, Baloch, Turkmen, Sistani, and Persian Gulf islander populations exhibit a more distinct genetic structure and have experienced genetic admixture with populations from South Asia, Central Asia, East Asia, and even Africa. However, even in these groups, the influence of the Persian Central Cluster is clearly evident, indicating that this cluster has played a pivotal role in the region’s genetic history.

Genetic Continuity Over Time By comparing this data with ancient DNA samples from the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age periods, researchers found that many populations within the Persian Central Cluster have undergone minimal genetic change over the past 5,000 years. Unlike other parts of the world where the arrival of migrant groups led to genetic replacement, in Persia, most populations have remained largely indigenous. For instance, the impact of migrations from steppe peoples and Neolithic farmers on the groups within the Persian Central Cluster has been reported as minimal.

April 3, 2025 | 5:45 am