The Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation (SMGF) has built the world's foremost collection of Y-chromosome DNA data and corresponding genealogies. Currently, the Sorenson Y-database contains data from more than 31,000 men throughout the world.

Only males have Y-chromosome DNA, which is passed down virtually unchanged from father to son. This means that males with a common parental ancestor will have almost identical Y-DNA. In addition to their Y-DNA, men generally inherit their surnames from their fathers. This makes Y-DNA an excellent tool for surname research.

Searching the Sorenson Y-database by surname and/or by genetic marker values allows us to find cousins who may be connected across generations and around the world. Men who have similar genetic marker values and the same surname likely share a common ancestor. In general, the more marker values in common, the closer the relationship.

To search the Sorenson Database, simply go to the Search page and follow the instructions on the screen. You may enter DNA results obtained from a commercial lab or select the SMGF default values.

Women may also search the Y-Chromosome Database for the surname of their father or brothers.

If you have not participated in the SMGF project, click here to learn how to add your DNA results and pedigree chart to the Sorenson Database.