DNA study puts family history to the test

Scientists have developed a genetic test that reveals how diverse a person's ancestors were. Research conducted by the University of Edinburgh has shown that an individual's DNA records a historical archive of where they come from. The study has found that it is possible to determine whether a person's ancestors came from small, isolated communities, or from large, cosmopolitan populations. It is also possible to detect whether a person's parents or ancestors were related in any way - for example whether they come from a community where marriage between cousins is commonplace. The team says the findings could help to identify those communities where low genetic diversity could increase the risk of genetic illnesses, such as cystic fibrosis. The findings are published in the journal PLoS One. Global research.