Mixed-ancestry genetic research shows a bit of Native American DNA could reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Mixed-ancestry genetic research shows a bit of Native American DNA could reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease
Traditionally, researchers search for individual genes that are related to disease risk by looking at tiny genetic markers all across the genome. Credit: Andreas Bolzer, Gregor Kreth, Irina Solovei, Daniela Koehler, Kaan Saracoglu, Christine Fauth, Stefan Müller, Roland Eils, Christoph Cremer, Michael R. Speicher, Thomas Cremer, CC BY

Since the human genome was first mapped, scientists have discovered hundreds of genes influencing illnesses like breast cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, Black people, Indigenous people and other people of color are underrepresented in most genetic studies. This has resulted in a skewed and incomplete understanding of the genetics of many diseases.

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