Hidden gene in Middle East populations can signal Parkinson's disease

A recent international study has uncovered significant gaps in addressing Parkinson's disease within Middle Eastern populations, despite these individuals carrying a key genetic variant linked to the condition. Conducted by the US National Institute on Ageing and the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, the research examined genetic risks in over 100,000 individuals.

Parkinson's, a progressive brain disorder causing mobility issues, sleep problems, mental health challenges, and other bodily dysfunctions, affects an estimated 12 million people worldwide by 2025, with the Middle East recording an age-standardized prevalence of about 83 cases per 100,000 people. However, these rates are steadily increasing due to aging populations and lifestyle changes.

The study revealed that individuals of Middle Eastern descent are more likely to carry the LRRK2 gene variant, which appears in 4.4% of those with Parkinson's, nearly double the overall rate. Additionally, the PRKN gene variant, a major driver of early-onset Parkinson's, was found in 1.3% of the Middle Eastern cohort. Despite these findings, genetic variants like LRRK2 and GBA1 are under-researched in regions outside Europe, prompting calls for increased research into age-related diseases in diverse populations.

Dr. Lara Lange, a study author, emphasized that nearly 12% of Middle Eastern Parkinson's patients carry these actionable genetic variants, primarily in LRRK2 and GBA1, yet all clinical trials for precision drugs currently take place in North America and Europe. Dr. Muhammad Ghatali, a neurologist at Mubadala Health, Dubai, noted that while Parkinson's is not entirely preventable, understanding genetic susceptibility can facilitate earlier treatment.

He highlighted that while levodopa remains the cornerstone of treatment, new methods such as MR guided focused ultrasound offer a permanent solution for tremors. However, the study also points out that genetics are just one factor in the development of Parkinson's, and lifestyle interventions such as regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline, including dementia.