DIVERSE-PD is a research project at University College London (UCL) investigating the genetic causes of Parkinson’s disease. We are particularly interested in people who develop Parkinson’s at a younger age, have a family history of the condition, or come from under-represented ethnic backgrounds. By studying a more diverse group of people, we hope to improve understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to Parkinson’s disease.

Although we know that genetics plays a role in Parkinson’s disease, many of the genetic factors involved remain unknown. People from some ethnic backgrounds have been under-represented in genetic research, meaning that important genetic discoveries may have been missed. DIVERSE-PD aims to address this gap and help build a more complete understanding of the condition.

We study DNA, the genetic information present in our cells, to identify changes that may contribute to Parkinson’s disease. We hope to identify new genetic causes, better understand the effects of known genetic changes, and improve the interpretation of genetic findings. In the longer-term, genetic research contributes to new treatment strategies and drug development.

Much of what we know about the genetics of Parkinson’s disease comes from research involving people of European ancestry. As a result, we may be missing important information about the genetic factors that contribute to Parkinson’s disease in other populations.By including people from a wider range of ethnic backgrounds, we hope to identify genetic changes that might otherwise be overlooked and build a more complete understanding of Parkinson’s disease. This will help make genetic research more representative of the people affected by the condition.

Genetic factors are more likely to play a role in some forms of Parkinson’s disease, including cases that develop at a younger age or occur in multiple family members. Studying these groups may help us identify genetic changes associated with the condition.