The Science Behind Your Ancestry
Built specifically for South Asian genetics with unprecedented precision
Our Methodology
Four pillars of precision ancestry analysis designed for the Indian subcontinent
South Asia-Tuned Reference Panel
Our proprietary reference panel includes 2,500+ samples from across the Indian subcontinent, representing every major linguistic and ethnic group. Unlike global panels that treat South Asia as a monolithic "South Asian" category, we distinguish between Dravidian, Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, Austroasiatic, and Andamanese populations.
ADMIXTURE Analysis
We use maximum likelihood estimation to determine the proportion of your ancestry from different ancestral populations. Our models incorporate widely accepted ancestral components described in peer-reviewed South Asian population genetics research, revealing the complex admixture history of the subcontinent. All ancestry estimates are statistical in nature and represent probability distributions, not exact lineage proportions.
Haplogroup Classification
We analyze Y-chromosome (paternal) and mitochondrial DNA (maternal) to determine your haplogroups. Common South Asian Y-DNA haplogroups include R1a (commonly observed in populations associated with Indo-Aryan–related migration histories), L-M20 (ancient Indus Valley), and H-M69 (indigenous South Asian). mtDNA haplogroups M, U, and R trace maternal lineages back 50,000+ years.
Ancient DNA Comparison
We compare your genome against ancient DNA samples including the Rakhigarhi individual (4,500 years old, Harappan civilization), Roopkund skeletons, and ancient samples from the Steppes, Iran, and Southeast Asia. This reveals how your ancestry connects to major prehistoric migrations. Ancient DNA comparisons are probabilistic and intended for historical context, not individual identity attribution.
Research Foundation
Our methodology is grounded in peer-reviewed research including the landmark studies by David Reich's lab at Harvard, Vagheesh Narasimhan's work on the Indus Valley, and the comprehensive Indian Genome Variation Consortium. We continuously update our reference panel as new ancient DNA and population studies are published. Helixline is an independent company and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the researchers or institutions referenced above.
Research foundations referenced include peer-reviewed studies published in:
Why Helixline Stands Apart
See how our South Asian-first approach delivers unmatched genetic insights for Indians
| Feature |
Helixline
|
23andMe / Global
|
|---|---|---|
| Reference Data | South Asian-Focused | Primarily European Reference Panels |
| Community-Level Genetic Clusters | Population-based clusters, not caste identification | "North India" bucket |
| Health & Wellness Traits | B12 metabolism, lipid markers, lactose tolerance | Western Lifestyle |
| Data Location | 100% In India | USA / Overseas |
| Ancient Matches | Harappan / Indus Valley | Neanderthal only |
| Haplogroups | Full South Asian Tree | Basic Labels |
Helixline does not identify or label caste. Genetic similarity reflects population history, not social identity.