12 Ancient Mitogenomes from Yanzhai (Henan) Reveal High Maternal Diversity and Continuity in Late Neolithic Central Plains

Researchers report complete mitochondrial genomes from 12 individuals of the Longshan culture at the Yanzhai site in Henan, published in Human Biology (Vol. 95, No. 3). Because mtDNA is inherited strictly through the maternal line, these genomes offer a window into ancient female lineages.

The results reveal high maternal genetic diversity within the Longshan group, indicating it was not descended from only a handful of maternal lineages. The individuals are also genetically close to other ancient Yellow River populations, pointing to long-standing maternal continuity in the basin since the Late Neolithic.

The Central Plains were a core stage of early Chinese civilization, and prior work has leaned heavily on paternal nuclear genomes and archaeological cultures. These mitogenomes add a maternal perspective on the expansion and interaction of Late Neolithic populations in the heartland.