N1a

n1a is a Y-chromosome haplogroup within haplogroup N, among the most widespread lineages in northern Eurasia. It is characterized by a lineage-specific set of mutations and is used in genetic genealogy and population genetics to trace paternal ancestry.

In modern populations, n1a is most frequent among certain Uralic-speaking groups in Russia and Siberia, including the Komis, Khanty, Mansi, and Nenets, and is also found among Finns, Russians, and some Baltic populations at lower frequencies. Outside Europe, it is detected in various Siberian and Central Asian groups. The geographic pattern suggests origin in northern Eurasia with subsequent dispersals during the late Pleistocene and Holocene, linked to the movements of Uralic-speaking and other populations.

Sublineages of n1a have diversified over time, with different subclades expanding in different regions. In ancient DNA, traces of N1a have been recovered in skeletal remains from northern Eurasia, but the presence of N1a in ancient populations is not uniform and interpretations vary with new data and methods. The classification of N1a has also evolved as new mutations are discovered, leading to reorganization of subclades in contemporary phylogenies.

In population genetics, n1a is one of many haplogroups used to study the complex demographic history of northern Eurasia, including migrations, admixture, and language spread. It does not by itself indicate a particular ethnicity or culture, and its frequencies can vary widely even among neighboring groups.