In this article, we promote the implementation of extensive genealogical data in population genetic studies. Genealogical records can provide valuable information on the origin of DNA donors in a population genetic study, going beyond the commonly collected data such as residence, birthplace, language, and self-reported ethnicity. Recent studies demonstrated that extended genealogical data added to surname analysis can be crucial to detect signals of (past) population stratification and to interpret the population structure in a more objective manner. Moreover, when in-depth pedigree data are combined with haploid markers, it is even possible to disentangle signals of temporal differentiation within a population genetic structure during the last centuries. Obtaining genealogical data for all DNA donors in a population genetic study is a labor-intensive task but the vastly growing (genetic) genealogical databases, due to the broad interest of the public, are making this job more time-efficient if there is a guarantee for sufficient data quality. At the end, we discuss the advantages and pitfalls of using genealogy within sampling campaigns and we provide guidelines for future population genetic studies. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.22233, hdl.handle.net/1765/39640
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Larmuseau, M., Geystelen, A., van Oven, M., & Decorte, R. (2013). Genetic genealogy comes of age: Perspectives on the use of deep-rooted pedigrees in human population genetics . doi:10.1002/ajpa.22233