Genetic studies of the Roma (Gypsies): a review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Data provided by the social sciences as well as genetic research suggest that the 8-10 million Roma (Gypsies) who live in Europe today are best described as a conglomerate of genetically isolated founder populations. The relationship between the traditional social structure observed by the Roma, where the Group is the primary unit, and the boundaries, demographic history and biological relatedness of the diverse founder populations appears complex and has not been addressed by population genetic studies.

Results

Recent medical genetic research has identified a number of novel, or previously known but rare conditions, caused by private founder mutations. A summary of the findings, provided in this review, should assist diagnosis and counselling in affected families

SUBMITTER: Kalaydjieva L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC31389 | biostudies-literature | 2001

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature