New Genetic Variant Linked to Higher Parkinson's Risk in People of African Descent

 

    Recently, researchers identified a genetic variant that appears to increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease in individuals of African descent. This is a variant that is not commonly seen in people of European or Asian ancestry. This finding comes from a large genetic analysis involving nearly 200,000 individuals of African ancestry, including participants from Nigeria and African‑American communities. The study found a specific variant in the GBA1 gene influencing how cells break down and recycle proteins that is more common among people with Parkinson’s in these populations. Unlike earlier research that focused mainly on populations of European descent, this study highlights the importance of diverse genetic research so that discoveries may benefit all populations. Understanding ancestry‑specific genetic risk factors could lead to better screening, prevention strategies, and eventually tailored treatments for Parkinson’s disease.

    The discovery highlights an ancestry‑specific genetic risk factor for Parkinson’s disease in people of African descent, demonstrating that genetic risk can vary significantly across populations. The variant is located in the GBA1 gene, which helps cells recycle proteins. People with one copy of this variant have about 50% higher risk of Parkinson’s, and those with two copies have even greater risk. Most genetic studies of Parkinson’s have historically focused on people of European ancestry, so this study helps correct that imbalance and expand scientific understanding. Researchers hope that identifying variants will eventually contribute to more personalized treatments or therapies that target specific biological pathways linked to Parkinson’s. This research highlights the value of global collaboration among scientists and genetic studies, focusing on diverse populations leads to discoveries that might otherwise be missed.

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/gene-variant-found-linking-people-of-african-descent-to-higher-parkinsons-risk

Additional information: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/index.php/news/2023/new-risk-factor-for-parkinsons-identified-among-people-african-descent

#Genetics #Parkinsons #HealthEquity #GBA1 #ScientificDiscovery