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

An international study has uncovered a gene variant in Middle Eastern populations that could signal a higher risk of Parkinson's disease. Despite this, the region is under-served by gene-targeted therapies, and genetic screening may miss crucial risk signals. The LRRK2 gene variant was found in 4.4% of Parkinson's patients from the Middle East, more than doubling the study's overall rate.

The PRKN gene variant, a major early-onset Parkinson's driver, was found in 1.3% of the region's population. Researchers emphasize the need for increased research into ageing-related diseases in Middle Eastern cohorts, as current clinical trials primarily take place in North America and Europe. Dr. Lara Lange, a study author, states that nearly 12% of Middle Eastern Parkinson's patients carry an actionable genetic variant, primarily in LRRK2 and GBA1, which are targeted by leading precision drugs globally.

However, most clinical trials for these treatments currently take place in North America and Europe. Parkinson's disease-related disability and deaths are on the rise globally, with cases increasing from 3 million in 1990 to around 12 million in 2025. The Middle East records an age-standardised prevalence of around 83 cases per 100,000 people.

Dr. Muhammad Ghatali, a neurologist, explains that while there is no complete prevention for Parkinson's, understanding genetic susceptibility can enable earlier treatment. He mentions that levodopa, the standard treatment, is still the cornerstone, but new approaches like MR guided focused ultrasound are being used to resolve tremors.