Theodore Schurr and Matthew Dulik, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, recently published the results of their research on the genetic heritage of Kazakhs in Russia's Altai Republic. Their study focused on the Y-chromosome variation, using these genetic markers to examine questions about the influence and role of expansion of the Mongol Empire in the genetic variation of Altaian Kazakhs, as well as comparing the paternal ancestry of this population with other groups in Central Asia.
The Altai region is an important area of culture contact and trade near the ancient network of routes known as the Silk Road. Schurr and Dulik found differences in the patterns of y-chromosomal genetic variation among Kazakh populations and also from other Central Asian populations. All of the groups studied showed evidence of genetic influence by the 13th century CE Mongol Empire.
Links to the original research article and the press release.