Celebrating Black History Month

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

This February, we join together to celebrate Black History Month, a time to reflect on the profound contributions of Black individuals throughout history and recognize the ongoing impact of Black culture, innovation, and resilience in shaping our world. Let’s take this opportunity to honor the trailblazers who broke barriers, the unsung heroes whose legacies inspire change, and the vibrant diversity that enriches our communities. Together, we celebrate not only history but the progress we continue to strive for every day. We encourage everyone to participate in the month’s events and take time to learn, reflect, and engage. Through understanding and action, we can honor the past while working toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

CAC Members at an APOLLO Steering Committee Meeting September 4th, 2024

APOLLO

APOL1 Long-term Kidney Transplantation
Outcomes Network

The purpose of this study is to test kidney donors and kidney transplant recipients for apolipoprotein L1 gene (called APOL1) variants (or forms of the gene) and to see how these may affect them. Genes control the traits that you inherit from your family such as your eye color or blood type. Variation or changes in genes can also put some people at risk for developing certain diseases. Previous research has shown that variation in the APOL1 gene can put people at higher risk for kidney disease. The purpose of this study is to test kidney donors and recipients for APOL1 gene variants to see how this gene may impact people who receive a kidney transplant and those who donated a kidney.

Learn More

APOLLO's very own Dissemination Working Group recently published an article entitled "Practical Considerations for Sharing Race-Based Genetic Research Findings".

This article explains why it's important to know the differences between race, ethnicity, and ancestry in genetic research, especially for studying kidney disease and transplants. Race and ethnicity are based on things like looks and culture, but ancestry is about a person’s genetic background. Mixing these up can lead to wrong information and unfair treatment.

One key focus is a genetic change in the APOL1 gene, which can increase the risk of kidney disease. This gene is most common in people with African ancestry. Sometimes, scientists use race instead of ancestry in their research, which can cause mistakes. For instance, people in some parts of Central and South America might also have this gene but could be missed in studies.

The APOLLO study looks at how the APOL1 gene affects kidney transplants. It includes donors and recipients with African ancestry to better understand genetic risks without spreading false ideas about race and genetics. The study also emphasizes:

• Working with communities and experts to make sure research is fair and respectful.

• Using clear language that doesn’t support racial stereotypes.

• Finding better ways to make medical decisions, like using genetic tests instead of guessing based on race.

• Explaining that genes aren’t the only things that affect health.

• Understanding that social and environmental factors also impact health.

The APOLLO study results could help doctors stop using race to assess risk and start using more accurate genetic testing. This might help more people get kidney transplants. However, there are still questions about who should be tested, how to make testing fair, and how to avoid making certain groups carry most of the burden.

This research shows why it’s important to carefully talk about race and genetics. Doing so can prevent confusion and help ensure fair medical treatment for everyone.

To read article, click here