Study of two X-linked microsatellite blocks: Allelic frequencies in mixed and isolated population groups

Abstract

Two X-linked microsatellite blocks were studied in Cantabria, a small region in Northern Spain. DNA samples were obtained from two different areas: a coastal area, with a well mixed population, and a mountainous area, with a population that has limited communications for social interaction with people from other communities. Statically significant differences were found in allelic frequency distribution between the populations analyzed, revealing the importance of a proper interpretation when kinship analysis and forensic cases include individuals from relatively isolated populations whose frequencies can differ from the general population data.