The GBA variant research team was headed by Andrew Singleton , PhD , of GP2 and Ekemini Riley , PhD , of ASAP ( center left and right ), along with co-authors ( left to right ) Njideka Okubadejo , MD ; Mie Rizig , PhD ; Sara Bandres-Ciga , PhD ; and Mary Makarious , BSc .
The finding highlights the value of inclusive and diverse research . It holds promise to both expand understanding of the genetic underpinnings of PD risk and progression and benefit those who have long been underrepresented and underserved in research and medicine .
“ With the discovery of the first genetic risk factor for Parkinson ’ s disease that is specific to people of African ancestry , it is impossible not to be excited about where the Parkinson ’ s field is headed ,” said Ekemini A . U . Riley , PhD , managing director , ASAP .
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