The specific Pazyryk contribution to these gene pools — and the specific genetic ancestry of the Ice Maiden herself — is a question that further analysis of her remains could potentially address.

For the Altai community, the question of ancestry is not merely academic.

The claim that the Ice Maiden is their ancestor — that she belongs to them — is central to their argument for her return and for respectful treatment of her remains.

DNA evidence that establishes or complicates this claimed relationship is therefore both scientifically interesting and politically significant.

The Ukok Plateau Today

The Ukok Plateau, where the Ice Maiden was found, is today part of the Golden Mountains of Altai UNESCO World Heritage Site.