Biological distances calculated using hematologic data among three isolate populations (Blins, Chateaudauphin, La Chianal) of an Italian Alpine Valley (High Varaita Valley).

The data on a hematologic study of Alpine populations are presented; the determination of some hemogroups of the three isolate populations of Blins, Chateaudauphin and La Chianal in Varaita Valley has been done. Particularly for Blins inhabitants, serum albumin, haptoglobins and the antigens Gm and Inv, are studied. On the basis of the gene frequencies of haptoglobins and the Gm and Inv systems, the population of Blins shows a slight degree of homogeneity. According to the Spuhler method, using gene frequencies of ABO, MN and the Kell system, the biological distances between the three communes, hamlets and patronymic groups have been calculated. The results of this analysis demonstrate a typical genetic structure of the Varaita Valley population. A comparison of gene frequencies of ABO and Rh systems with the Italian national average and neighbouring populations shows wide differences, a consequence of endogamy and the high isolation rate. A wide difference may also be observed between the different hamlets as a consequence of family and socioeconomic structures.