Western Ancestors Found in Gansu Tombs through Ancient DNA

A groundbreaking study by Fudan University scientists has shed light on the melting pot of cultures that flourished along the Silk Road for centuries. Using ancient DNA from Gansu Province tombs, they revealed a fascinating story of two major immigration waves that shaped the genetic makeup of the region’s inhabitants.

Crossroads of Civilizations:

The Hexi Corridor, a narrow yet vital artery connecting China’s heartland to the Western Territory, witnessed the vibrant exchange of goods, ideas, and people for over two millennia. This study, published in the Science Bulletin, delves into the genetic legacy of this historical crossroads, the first of its kind using ancient DNA.

Unveiling Hidden Layers:

The team, led by Dr. Wen Shaoqing, extracted DNA from teeth and bones at two key sites: Heishuiguo near Zhangye and Foyemiaowan near Dunhuang. Analyzing samples from 25 individuals spanning the Han to Tang Dynasties (618-907 AD), they identified two outliers at Foyemiaowan. These individuals, dating to the Wei and Tang Dynasties, possessed surprising genetic signatures.

Western Whispers:

Further analysis revealed that these individuals harbored 30% and 50% western Eurasian ancestry, respectively, suggesting they were likely descendants of unions between Western Eurasian women and local Hexi Corridor men. Interestingly, despite their unique heritage, they were buried alongside others in the mass cemetery, hinting at the tolerance and open-mindedness of ancient Dunhuang.

Echoes of History:

This discovery aligns with existing evidence from the Mogao Caves, showcasing the cultural diversity that flourished in Dunhuang during that era. Comparing ancient DNA with modern-day genetics, the researchers found a fascinating trend – contemporary Han Chinese in Gansu and specific ethnic groups like Dongxiang, Bonan, and Yugur carry more western Eurasian ancestry than their ancient counterparts.

Two Waves of Change:

The team pinpoints two major genetic shifts. The first, occurring from the late Neolithic to the Han Dynasty, coincided with large-scale migrations organized by Han rulers to establish the Silk Road. Historical accounts and DNA data corroborate this period, showing genetic similarities between ancient Hexi Corridor residents and those from the Yellow River basin.

The second major shift, around 600-1,000 years ago, coincides with the Mongol Empire’s expansion. Records suggest that Genghis Khan and his sons encouraged migration from Central and Western Asia, with some settling in the Hexi Corridor. This influx likely contributed to the observed increase in western Eurasian ancestry among contemporary populations. Interestingly, this migration involved families, unlike earlier waves.

Unraveling the Tapestry:

This study offers a tantalizing glimpse into the dynamic interplay of cultures along the Silk Road. By revealing the genetic echoes of past migrations, it provides valuable insights into the region’s rich history and the enduring legacy of cultural exchange. As Dr. Wen states, this research is just the beginning, and the team plans to unravel the secrets of the Silk Road in even greater detail.