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.
ANI, ASI & AASI: India's Ancient Genetic Layers
Understanding the three ancestral components that shaped South Asian DNA
Ancestral North Indian (ANI)
The ANI component reflects ancestry related to ancient populations from Central Asia, the Eurasian Steppes, and the Iranian plateau. ANI ancestry is present across all South Asian populations but typically found in higher proportions in Indo-Aryan speaking groups in northern and western India. It is linked to Bronze Age migrations that brought Steppe-pastoral ancestry into the subcontinent around 2000-1500 BCE.
Ancestral South Indian (ASI)
ASI ancestry represents a mixture of Ancient Ancestral South Indian (AASI) lineages and Iranian farmer-related ancestry. This component is typically found in higher proportions among Dravidian-speaking populations in southern India and Sri Lanka. ASI ancestry connects modern Indians to the people who built the Indus Valley Civilization and their descendants who mixed with indigenous hunter-gatherer groups.
Ancient Ancestral South Indian (AASI)
AASI represents the deepest indigenous ancestry of the Indian subcontinent, descending from hunter-gatherer populations who arrived in South Asia over 50,000 years ago during the Out of Africa migration. AASI DNA is found in all modern South Asians but in the highest proportions among tribal (Adivasi) communities such as the Irula, Paniya, and Onge. Helixline's reference panel specifically models AASI ancestry, giving you insight into this ancient and uniquely South Asian genetic heritage.
Every South Asian carries a unique blend of ANI, ASI, and AASI ancestry. Helixline's ADMIXTURE analysis breaks down these components with precision, helping you understand the ancient population history written in your DNA. Learn more about ANI & ASI ancestry →
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.