The Gleason/Gleeson DNA Project is open to all those genetically related to the following surnames who submit a DNA sample to Family Tree DNA: Glasson, Gleason, Gleeson, Gleson, Glezen, Glisson, Glysson, Leason, Leeson, Leson, O'Glasain and O'Gliasain. This list is not meant to be complete, and no one surname is more important than another. Just as DNA mutates over time, family surnames mutate as well, leading to an array of possible variations. The project name is based on the two surname spellings most frequent among the membership, The "Gleason" spelling is the one found predominantly in the United States, while "Gleeson" is of Irish origin and is found throughout the U.K. and Australia. Although there are several kinds of DNA tests used for genealogical purposes, this project focuses on the Y-Chromosome test which tests specifically for the Y-DNA that is passed from generation to generation between direct line males. A test at a minimum of 37 markers is recommended. However, those with genetic ties to the surnames listed who have taken the autosomal Family Finder test or the mtDNA test are welcome to join the project as well. The discovery process begins for a participant when the lab analysis of his Y-DNA test identifies another participant whose test results are a "match" with his. Often these "matches" can help the participant with the paper trail that leads further back up the family tree. When the DNA information is combined with family pedigrees and other relevant information, the full power of Genetic Genealogy is utilized. One of the goals of the project is to discover common characteristics among the Y-DNA test results of the members and to group the members into "lineages" defined by a set of distinguishing mutations of the DNA. Then, by combining information from the individual members of a lineage, it may be possible to identify a patriarch (or founding father) for the lineage. The lineage information is used in many ways—for one, it provides direction to members who have no knowledge of their ancestry. Other discoveries are possible through involvement in the project, and each member may have his own unique set of goals. It is the job of the project administrators to assist the participant in finding the path that will lead to the realization of his personal goals. Check out our LINKS page in the menu on the left for the following useful pages: - Our Blog page, which contains an informative and easy-to-follow intro to the project for prospective Y-DNA members. - Our Y-Results page, which illustrates the characteristic DNA mutation patterns of the lineages. - Our Patriarchs' page, which presents the known pedigrees of members of the various lineages.