CARTA: Population Genetics of Latin America and Oceania with Andrés Moreno-Estrada

Andrés Moreno-Estrada discusses genomic studies characterizing the genetic profiles and evolutionary history of Indigenous populations in the Americas and Oceania.

Genetic data is transforming the understanding of our own species and refining historical chapters at different scales around the globe. However, despite the globalization of biotechnologies to analyze the human genome, indigenous populations from the Americas and Oceania remain underrepresented in large-scale genomic studies. Andrés Moreno-Estrada, Cinvestav, discusses recent efforts to characterize the genetic profile of Indigenous Americans throughout the analysis of ancient and modern DNA, as well as their relationship within and beyond the continent, including the possibility of prehistoric contacts with Pacific Islanders. This topic poses challenges and opportunities to adequately study human diversity not only for the benefit of genetic research and science, but also for the benefit of the local communities, which are bearers of a unique evolutionary history that has been recorded in their DNA. This rapidly evolving field also raises questions about the best practices when studying the DNA of underrepresented ancestries while conducting cutting-edge science in a more equitable way. Recorded on 11/07/2025. [2/2026] [Show ID: 41201] Donate to UCTV to support informative & inspiring programming: uctv.tv/donate Learn more about anthropogeny on CARTA's website: carta.anthropogeny.org/ More videos from: CARTA: Ancient DNA - New Revelations (uctv.tv/carta-ancient-dna) Explore More Science & Technology on UCTV (uctv.tv/science) Science and technology continue to change our lives. University of California scientists are tackling the important questions like climate change, evolution, oceanography, neuroscience and the potential of stem cells. UCTV is the broadcast and online media platform of the University of California, featuring programming from its ten campuses, three national labs and affiliated research institutions. UCTV explores a broad spectrum of subjects for a general audience, including science, health and medicine, public affairs, humanities, arts and music, business, education, and agriculture. Launched in January 2000, UCTV embraces the core missions of the University of California -- teaching, research, and public service – by providing quality, in-depth television far beyond the campus borders to inquisitive viewers around the world. (uctv.tv)