The Populations page manages standardised population and ancestry labels used across Sequoia study records.
Population labels provide important context for genetic data, including how results should be interpreted and which ancestry-matched reference data may be appropriate for analyses involving linkage disequilibrium (LD).
View population records
The Populations table displays the available population and ancestry categories.
[Screenshot 1: Use the full Populations page. Add a red box around the population table.]
For each population, you can view:
- Name
- Status
- Created date
- Number of associated Studies
Examples include European, East Asian, South Asian, African, Finnish, Mixed ancestries, and other available population categories.
Understand the associated-study count
The Studies column shows how many study records are currently associated with each population label.
[Screenshot 2: Highlight the Studies column and one or two example counts.]
Use this count to understand how widely a population category is represented in the current study catalogue.
Search for a population
Use the search field to find a population by name.
[Screenshot 3: Red box around the population search field and “Search” button.]
For example, search for European, South Asian, or Mixed ancestries.
Use advanced filters
Select Advanced Filters to refine the population list using available properties.
[Screenshot 4: Red box around the “Advanced Filters” button.]
Filters can help identify records by status, date created, associated-study count, or other configured metadata.
Create a new population record
Select New Population to add a population or ancestry category.
[Screenshot 5: Red box and arrow pointing to the “New Population” button.]
Use a clear and standardised name that can be applied consistently across studies.
[Screenshot 6: Add a screenshot of the New Population form. Highlight the name, status, and save or create button.]
Only create a new record when an existing population label does not accurately represent the study metadata.
Manage status
An Active population record is available for use in study metadata and relevant portal workflows.
[Screenshot 7: Red box around an Active status label.]
Before inactivating a population category, review the number of associated studies and consider the effect on existing metadata.
Sort and configure the table
Select a sort icon in a column heading to sort the population list, for example by Name or Created date.
Select Columns to choose which fields are displayed.
[Screenshot 8: Highlight the Name and Created sort icons, plus the “Columns” button.]
Why population metadata matters
Population and ancestry information should be considered when interpreting genetic associations and choosing reference data for analyses.
For example, when an app requires an LD reference panel, select a reference population that is as closely aligned as possible with the ancestry represented in the selected GWAS study.
Tips
- Use the standard population categories already available wherever possible.
- Apply population labels based on the study’s documented ancestry or participant composition.
- Do not infer population or ancestry from geography, phenotype, or a study name alone.
- Review associated-study counts before editing or inactivating a population record.