March, Magellan, and mapping our DNA
A year ago in March saw the launch of the Human Diversity in the Space of the Magalhães Circumnavigation: Genetics, History, and Culture project, headed by Dr. Luisa Pereira and funded by Portugal. The primary purpose of the project is to study human variability across space and time through the comparison of populations and their dynamics from the early 16th century to the present. Cebu was the target population in the Philippines because the first lengthy contact of any local group in the country with Magellan’s crew happened in Cebu some 503 years ago.
The project wanted to test “pure Cebuanos” to see if little to large variations in genetic diversity has occurred in the Cebuano population since the time of Magellan’s first contact with the locals; of course, most of those from Metro Cebu already have mixed ancestries. Still, it was hoped that among those tested a pattern could be established. I, myself, am almost pure Cebuano as three of my four grandparents were born in Cebu. My maternal grandmother’s family has also been in Cebu City for generations and has always claimed descent from one of Magellan’s crew. After taking a test with AncestryDNA, I discovered that my maternal grandmother’s claim was correct. Iberian ancestry appears in my mom’s family: 2% Spanish, 1% Basque, and 1% Portuguese, confirming that my mom’s family’s claim to Iberian bloodline is
true, albeit distantly. But what is interesting here is the Portuguese lineage, which AncestryDNA’s comparison tool has indicated came solely from my grandmother’s family. While it does not prove (nor does it disprove!) my lola’s claims of being descended from a Magellan crew member, this DNA test does confirm her family’s Portuguese heritage.
Dr. Pereira was able to send me preliminary results of my tests. From the samples taken from the other localities involved in the project, a total of 4,188 global samples were used as a reference, leading to 10 ancestral groups (West Africa, East Africa, North Africa, Near East, Arabian Peninsula, Southern Europe, Northern Europe, South Asia, East Asia, and Amerindian). My results simply confirmed what I already know: on a general scale, I am East Asian (86%), South Asian (9%), 3% Eurasian (South Europe and North African), and 2% Native American. These results have more explanations which, unfortunately, we cannot discuss in detail here. Suffice it to say that these results have been validated by other genetic tests. It even confirmed my Neanderthal heritage, which is 2.45%, a bit higher than the average 2.33% in most Europeans!
Since the project also tested several genetic variants involved in key biological processes, which are all essential factors in a wide range of chronic diseases, my results also discussed a few of my traits and health predispositions. My results validate most of the things I already know about myself and my health. It shows that my genetic makeup is not suitable for carbohydrates, my metabolism is not perfect, and I have issues with insulin. It even proved my aversion to alcohol and sour taste, two tastes I have never learned to like. In other words, much of our DNA lets us know the dos and don’ts to help us lead healthier lives.
More than 500 years ago, Ferdinand Magellan and his crew made the first European contact with our ancestors. It is interesting to note that generations later, the genetic legacy of those men and others who came after them continue to flow in our veins today and influence much of our traits and health.
For those who wish to learn more about DNA testing, email me for a free consultation!
"Much of our DNA lets us know the dos and don’ts to help us lead healthier lives. "