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Monthly Archives: September 2025

MyAfroDNA > 2025 > September
22
Sep
Date September 22, 2025
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A Map of Blood Regulatory Variation in South Africans Enables GWAS Interpretation


A new study introduces the South African Blood Regulatory (SABR) resource, a functional genomics dataset derived from >600 individuals from three South Eastern Bantu-speaking populations (Pedi/Bapedi, Tsonga, Zulu). The project integrates whole-genome sequencing and blood transcriptome data to map regulatory variation (expression QTLs / splice QTLs / cell-type interaction QTLs) for 40 blood-cell traits. One major finding: many regulatory variants are unique to individuals of African ancestry, and a substantial fraction are entirely absent in non-African populations.





Compared to the widely used GTEx project (which is heavily biased toward European ancestry), SABR detects more regulatory variants per gene—even though the sample size is smaller. The team also utilizes GWAS summary statistics from African-ancestry participants in the Pan-UK Biobank to demonstrate that SABR enhances the interpretation of genetic associations, specifically identifying putative causal genes and mechanisms linked to blood-related traits and disease risks that would otherwise be more difficult to discern.





SABR’s analysis connects changes in blood cell subtype levels with diseases like HIV, obesity, hypertension, asthma, and the effects of smoking. Several variants that influence disease-relevant cell types or levels are common in SABR but rare or unobserved elsewhere. The full SABR summary statistics are being made publicly available to support researchers.





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15
Sep
Date September 15, 2025
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New Genomic Study Reveals Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Staphylococcus aureus Across Africa


Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major threat to global health, and Africa is no exception. As pathogens evolve, our ability to treat common infections is becoming increasingly limited.





A new study published in Scientific Reports provides valuable insight into the genetic basis of AMR in Africa, focusing on Staphylococcus aureus, one of the most widespread and clinically significant bacteria.What the Study FoundResearchers analyzed 95 whole genomes of S. aureus collected from 11 African countries. The majority of these samples were human-derived, taken from blood, pus, urine, and wound sites.





Through bioinformatic analysis, they identified 33 antimicrobial resistance genes.Key findings include:Efflux pump mechanisms were the dominant form of resistance, allowing bacteria to actively expel antibiotics.Other resistance strategies included enzyme-mediated inactivation, target alteration, protection, and replacement.West and East Africa emerged as hotspots for the distribution of resistance genes, signaling the need for stronger surveillance in these regions.





These findings highlight the urgent need to expand genomic surveillance systems across the continent. Despite covering 11 countries, the study was limited by small sample sizes and lack of data from many African nations. This gap emphasizes the importance of building local capacity for sequencing, data analysis, and sample collection.For African health systems, this research serves as a reminder that combating AMR requires both global collaboration and homegrown solutions. Without comprehensive genomic data, it will be difficult to design effective treatment guidelines, track the spread of resistance, or prepare for future outbreaks.





At MyAfroDNA, we believe genomic research should be powered by African data, African expertise, and African innovation. Our mission is to provide high-quality biospecimens and molecular testing services that enable researchers to generate the insights needed to safeguard public health.AMR is a collective challenge, but with better data and stronger collaboration, Africa can take the lead in finding solutions.









Read the full publication here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-01398-0


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09
Sep
Date September 9, 2025
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New African Genomics Insights on Early Atherosclerosis


A groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications has revealed novel genetic variants associated with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), a key marker of early atherosclerosis, among nearly 8,000 adults from sub-Saharan Africa. The research, part of the AWI-Gen project, included participants from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa and marks one of the largest genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on cardiovascular risk in African populations.





Two previously unidentified loci, SIRPA and FBXL17, were found to be significantly associated with cIMT, offering new insight into biological pathways involved in vascular health. Notably, the study also identified sex-specific genetic signals: SNX29 in men, and LARP6 and PROK1 in women, the latter two being enriched for estrogen response genes. These findings suggest different genetic mechanisms for cardiovascular risk between men and women.





Many of the variants identified in this African cohort are either rare or absent in European populations, emphasizing the critical need for diversity in genomic research. This study not only deepens our understanding of cardiovascular disease in African communities but also underscores the importance of building inclusive datasets to drive precision medicine. At MyAfroDNA, we champion this kind of Africa-led genomic science.





Read more on this research here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-28276-x


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01
Sep
Date September 1, 2025
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Ancient DNA Unveils West African Roots in Early Medieval England


A groundbreaking pair of studies published in Antiquity reveals compelling genetic evidence of West African ancestry in two individuals buried in seventh-century England. The first “West African ancestry in seventh-century England: two individuals from Kent and Dorset” was led by Professor Duncan Sayer of the University of Central Lancashire, examining the female burial from Updown, Kent.






The second, focusing on the male burial at Worth Matravers, Dorset, titled Ancient genomes reveal cosmopolitan ancestry and maternal kinship patterns at post-Roman Worth Matravers, Dorset, was led by Dr. Ceiridwen J. Edwards from the University of Huddersfield.





In both cases, mitochondrial DNA traced maternal lineage to Northern Europe, while autosomal DNA showed clear affinity with present-day Yoruba, Mende, Mandenka, and Esan groups, indicating a West African paternal grandparent.

The Updown burial included a Frankish pot and spoon suggestive of Christian or Byzantine connections, highlighting continental ties, whereas the Dorset individual was interred with local artifacts and a burial companion, underscoring full local integration.





These discoveries represent the first genetic proof of sub-Saharan African connections in Early Medieval Britain, reshaping our understanding of migration, identity, and social complexity in that era.





Read more about this discovery here.






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