Genetic structure of isolated indigenous group in Northern Siberian-Nganasans (Tavgiytsi) from Taymir peninsula. I. History, kinship structure, blood groups, red cell enzymes

Nganasans is a small samodyen-speaking ethnic group originating from several clans of reindeer hunters. Hereditary studies revealed no consanguineous matings of uncle-niece, aunt-nephew, first cousin type among 120 families studied. Mating between second cousins could be observed rather rarely. The traditional kinship system based on bilateral exogamy is an explanation. Data on 12 blood systems and distribution of 6 red cell enzymes in two main localities almost totally studied have been presented. No A₂, r, K, MS alleles were observed. High frequencies of Ns, R², Fy(a), Jk(a), Gm¹ have been found. Diego(a) was seen in only one family. Polymorphism on PGM₁, 6-PGD, AK and AP, monomorphism on LDH and MDH has been observed.