23andMe (US:ME) globenewswire.comยท2024-05-29 12:00Core Insights - The study conducted by 23andMe on the LRRK2 G2019S variant reveals significant genetic associations with Parkinson's disease, highlighting differences in symptoms between variant carriers and non-carriers [1][2][4] - The research indicates that LRRK2 G2019S carriers are seven times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease compared to non-carriers, although not all carriers will develop the disease [2][4] - The findings suggest that LRRK2-associated Parkinson's disease has milder symptoms and slower progression compared to idiopathic Parkinson's disease [4][5] Genetic Insights - Only 10% of Parkinson's disease cases have a known genetic cause, with LRRK2 G2019S being the most common pathogenic variant linked to the disease [2][4] - The study identified genetic "hotspots" in populations from Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Brazil, indicating a higher-than-expected carrier rate of the LRRK2 G2019S variant [8][9] Research Methodology - The Parkinson's Impact Project (PIP) launched by 23andMe in 2018 included a longitudinal study with 1,286 genotyped LRRK2 G2019S carriers and over 109,000 non-carriers, making it the largest study of its kind [1][9][10] - Participants completed surveys every six months over 3.5 years, with 66% completing at least one follow-up [10][11] Ancestry and Population Insights - The LRRK2 G2019S variant originated in North Africa and spread through early Jewish settlers, with new findings suggesting its presence in Latin Caribbean populations due to historical migrations [7][8] - Understanding the genetic ancestry of LRRK2 carriers can help build community among affected individuals [8] Ongoing Research Commitment - 23andMe has been studying the genetic underpinnings of Parkinson's disease since 2009, identifying nearly 100 new genetic variants associated with the condition [11][12] - The collaboration with The Michael J. Fox Foundation has further advanced research on LRRK2 Parkinson's disease [12]