The Peruvian Alzheimer Disease Initiative (PeADI): An international effort model to increase diversity in AD research (S15.002)

Abstract

<h3>Objective:</h3> We have developed an international collaborative research initiative to ascertain a Peruvian cohort for AD and other related dementias for genetic studies of Amerindian individuals. <h3>Background:</h3> Peru is one of the five largest countries in Latin America and harboring a high Amerindian ancestry component in this population. The Latin American population, including Peruvians, are underrepresented in research studies of AD. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> PeADI was developed to recruit and enroll Peruvian adults aged 65 and older to a comprehensive genetic AD study. Individuals will get whole genome sequencing and plasma biomarkers. Participants included cases with AD and ADRD, healthy controls as well as multiplex AD families. Since 2019, we have established a multisource ascertainment approach including recruitment at main hospitals, outreach community activities and more recently due to the COVID19 pandemic remote recruitment and home visits in Lima, the capital city. Our recruitment has expanded to three regions from the Andes highlands (Puno, Huancayo, Cusco) and one region from the southern coast (Tacna). All participants are enrolled using a standard clinical and cognitive protocol administered by neurologists and neuropsychologists. <h3>Results:</h3> As of September 2022, we have enrolled 132 AD and other dementia cases, 292 controls and 6 multiplex AD families. While the majority of participants was recruited in Lima,45% controls and 7% of cases have been recruited in regions outside Lima. We have confirmed a significant association between APOE and AD in Peruvian Population higher than we have observed in non-Hispanics. In addition to ascertainment activities, we are working closely with the respective sites to develop a network and resources for AD research across Peru. To date, we have developed local research capacities within each region, including training opportunities for investigators, coordinators and lab technicians, and basic equipment for all regions. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> PeADI study shows the importance of equitable international north-south cooperation and local network cooperation to increase representation of understudied admixed populations to help us understand Amerindian ancestry in drug target discovery. <b>Disclosure:</b> Dr. Illanes-Manrique has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mena has nothing to disclose. Karina Milla-Neyra has nothing to disclose. Larry D. Adams has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mejia has nothing to disclose. Ms. Rios Pinto has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a PSYCHOLOGIST with DOMINGO OLAVEGOYA HOSPITAL. The institution of Prof. Isasi has received research support from NIH. Dr. MEDINA has nothing to disclose. The institution of Dr. Beecham has received research support from NIH. The institution of an immediate family member of Dr. Beecham has received research support from NIH. Dr. Cornejo-Herrera has nothing to disclose. Dr. Vance has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as an Editor, Associate Editor, or Editorial Advisory Board Member for neurology genetics. Dr. Ochoa has nothing to disclose. The institution of Dr. Suarez has received research support from Alzheimer’s Association. Michael L. Cuccaro has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sarapura-Castro has nothing to disclose. Miss Cubas-Montecino has received research support from Fundacion San Marcos. Miss Cubas-Montecino has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Lab Technician with Fundacion San Marcos. The institution of Dr. Cornejo Olivas has received research support from CONCYTEC-PROCIENCIA PERU. Dr. Cornejo Olivas has a non-compensated relationship as a Board member at Rare Disorders Burou (CCI-MINSA) with Ministry of Health in Peru that is relevant to AAN interests or activities. Dr. Pericak-Vance has nothing to disclose.