ABSTRACT
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of 23 Y-STR data for the Merkit clan, a subgroup within the Kerey tribe of the Kazakh people. A total of 64 complete haplotypes were generated using the PowerPlex Y23 System. The data obtained using 23 Y-STR markers has been submitted to the Y Chromosome Haplotype Reference Database (YHRD) at yhrd.org, which will significantly enhance the forensic database for the Kazakh population in Kazakhstan. The research focuses on the distribution of haplotypes within the clan and their genealogical lines, which were visualized using a Median-joining network and Multidimensional scaling plot. The study identifies four distinct haplogroup clusters, revealing important insights into the genetic makeup and historical lineage of the Merkits. This dataset not only enriches our understanding of Kazakh genetic structure but also holds significant value for anthropological and population genetic research, as well as for forensic genetics. This work bridges a notable gap in genetic research on the Merkit clan, contributing to a deeper understanding of Central Asian nomadic tribes.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The collection of genotype data was conducted as an essential part of a pivotal research project with the goal of examining the genetic variability of skin, hair, and iris color among the Kazakh population. The data has practical application in the field of forensic DNA phenotyping (FDA). Due to the limited size of forensic databases from Central Asia (Kazakhstan), it is practically impossible to obtain an individual identification result based on forensic profiling of short tandem repeats (STRs). However, the pervasive use of the FDA necessitates validation of the currently employed set of genetic markers in a variety of global populations. No such data existed for the Kazakhs. The Phenotype Expert kit (DNA Research Center, LLC, Russia) was used for the first time in this study to collect data. DATA DESCRIPTION: The present study provides genotype data for a total of 60 SNP genetic markers, which were analyzed in a sample of 515 ethnic Kazakhs. The dataset comprises a total of 41 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) obtained from the HIrisPlex-S panel. Additionally, there are 4 SNPs specifically related to the AB0 gene, 1 marker associated with the AMELX/Y genes, and 14 SNPs corresponding to the primary haplogroups of the Y chromosome. The aforementioned data could prove valuable to researchers with an interest in investigating genetic variability and making predictions about phenotype based on eye color, hair color, skin color, AB0 blood group, gender, and biogeographic origin within the male lineage.
