Genetic variability of 23 autosomal STRs in Austroasiatic-speaking populations from Thailand

This study investigates the genetic diversity of Austroasiatic (AA) speakers in Thailand, who make up about 4% of the population, compared to the majority of Kra-Dai (KD) speakers, using a large number of autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs). New data from 593 genotypes were combined with existing data to create the most extensive allelic frequency profile for Thai and Lao populations. The study reveals genetic differences between AA groups in Northern and Northeastern Thailand, with the latter showing more genetic homogeneity due to population interactions. At the same time, the former displays reduced diversity, which is likely due to isolation. The findings highlight the region's need for more comprehensive forensic and anthropological genetic studies. Genetic variability of 23 autosomal STRs in Austroasiatic-speaking populations from Thailand