The Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation (SMGF) announced today that it has significantly expanded the genetic data available on its free Web site and enhanced the research tools for visitors. The DNA database, first launched in 2004, has more than doubled in size to include more than 12,000 individual genetic profiles linked to genealogies of more than 480,000 ancestors representing more than 7,900 surnames around the world.

Anyone who has had their DNA tested for genealogy purposes may enter the numerical values from their individual DNA profile into the database to search for likely ancestors. This personal DNA profile is obtained by an inexpensive cheek-swab genetic test offered by many laboratories.

Tools on the foundation's Web site are further refined as well. "We have improved the Y-chromosome database search function to give users greater versatility in customizing searches and interpreting results," said Ugo A. Perego, director of operations for SMGF. "Also, we have enhanced the database's genetic matching capabilities to increase the number of results from each query."

Search the SMGF database online at www.smgf.org.