Evidence that the Cys282Tyr mutation of the <i>HFE</i> gene originated from a population in Southern Scandinavia and spread with the Vikings
Nils Milman|Palle Pedersen
Hereditary hemochromatosis has been recognized as a clinical disorder for more than 100 years. The common form of the is caused by Cys282Tyr mutation (C282Y) HFE gene. affects predominantly people Northern European origin. C282Y probably occurred on single chromosome carrying ancestral haplotype, which subsequently was spread emigration and founder effect. It estimated that appeared 60-70 generations ago. initially suggested within Celtic group peoples. However, we hypothesize distribution in Europe consistent with an origin among Germanic Iron Age population Southern Scandinavia. From this area, could later be migratory activities Vikings. aim present study to evaluate validity these two hypotheses. Several arguments are favor 'Viking hypothesis': first, highest frequencies (5.1-9.7%) observed populations part Europe, i.e. Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Faeroe Islands, Iceland, Eastern England (Danelaw) Dublin all Viking homelands settlements. Second, allele reported living along coastlines. Third, decline from Europe. Intermediate (3.1-4.8%) seen Central original homeland. Low (0-3.1%) Mediterranean.
Clinical Genetics|PubMed