In a commentary published in Nature Neuroscience, Dzirasa et al. (2024) discuss the importance of including individuals from minority communities in biomedical research to mitigate health disparities arising from a historically exclusionary and racist medical system. The authors emphasize the need for a more equitable science, in which the community actively participates in the formulation of questions, interpretation of results and communication of findings.
The paper highlights the African Ancestry Neuroscience Research Initiative (AANRI) as a promising model for brain genomics research, integrating community leadership, scientific research and scientific communication. AANRI, which is attended by community leaders from Morgan State University and the Lieber Institute for Brain Development, seeks to ensure that scientific discoveries benefit everyone, especially historically marginalized communities.
Dzirasa et al. (2024) argue that the inclusion of diverse genetic ancestries in research is critical to the development of effective treatments and interventions for all populations. By addressing racial disparities in neuroscience research, the authors advocate for a future where science is truly representative and inclusive, benefiting the health and well-being of all.
Reference:
DZIRASA, Kafui et al. Towards equitable brain genomics research, for us by us. Nature Neuroscience, v. 27, pp. 1021-1023, 2024.
