What is it about?
Our study aimed to understand the role of genetics in liver function in African populations. The liver is an essential organ in the body that performs several critical functions such as detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production. We used a method called multivariate genome-wide association study to examine the single nucleotide polymorphisms in two distinct African populations and we identified some genetic markers associated with liver biomarkers. These genetic markers could increase the risk of developing liver disease by affecting the liver's ability to perform its functions correctly. By understanding these genetic markers, we can better identify individuals at risk of developing liver disease and develop new treatments that can help prevent and treat liver disease in African populations.
Featured Image
Photo by Sangharsh Lohakare on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Our study focused on African populations, which are underrepresented in genomic studies. Our findings provide new insights into the genetic architecture of liver function in African populations, which can lead to better diagnosis and treatment of liver disease. This work is important given the growing burden of liver disease globally and highlights the need to study diverse populations to better understand the genetic basis of diseases.
Perspectives
Leading this research has been an exciting journey for me as we sought to deepen our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of liver function by focusing on the underrepresented African populations. I am proud to have been part of a team that achieved a better understanding of the genetic factors that influence liver biomarkers in these populations. I believe that our findings will be impactful in the field of genomics and liver disease, and I am excited to have contributed to this endeavor.
Chisom Soremekun
Makerere University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Multivariate GWAS analysis reveals loci associated with liver functions in continental African populations, PLoS ONE, February 2023, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280344.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
