Scientists sequenced largest ever set of genomes from a single nation The data reveals some surprising genetic mutations in Icelandic people Data also revealed that the father of humanity is older than first thought Eight per cent of the population has a gene that doesn't function at all Study found genes that increase the risk of Alzheimer's and liver disease Scientists say data will help them develop better treatments for disease

By Ellie Zolfagharifard For Dailymail.com

Published: 17:09 EST, 25 March 2015 | Updated: 03:19 EST, 26 March 2015

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In a genetic first, scientists have sequenced the largest ever set of human genomes from a single population.

The epic undertaking involved sequencing the DNA of 2,636 Icelanders and comparing them with the partial sequences of another 104,000.

Among several key finds, the data set suggests that the 'father of humanity' - our most recent common male ancestor - lived between 174,000 and 321,000 years ago.

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Landmark DNA study in Iceland reveals new insights into evolution and disease