UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER

Adjusting for principal components in genome-wide association studies can induce collider bias, especially in admixed populations where PCs may capture local genomic features instead of global ancestry. LD pruning is more effective than excluding high LD regions, but optimal parameters vary. Model-based ancestry inference may offer a better alternative in some cases. Careful pre-processing and checking of PCs are crucial to avoid spurious associations.

Herpes simplex 1 and 2, which cause cold sores, remain incurable and can reactivate due to stress. Antiviral medications can manage outbreaks but not eliminate the virus. Researchers are exploring vaccines and gene therapy for prevention and treatment, with some promising early-stage trials.

A new neuroimaging marker, peak-width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD), related to cerebral small vessel disease, may identify dementia risk in clinical trials. The study, led by UT Health San Antonio, found PSMD efficiently processes brain images in multi-site dementia studies and is associated with lower general cognition. PSMD's non-invasive, automated, fast, and reliable nature makes it ideal for clinical trial use.

Mohammad Rafieetary, OD, discusses his AAOpt 2024 presentation on gene therapy for diabetic retinopathy, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing in retinal disorders. He presented alongside Roya Attar, OD, on epigenetic variations and the role of genetic testing in conditions like macular degeneration. Rafieetary highlighted a case where retinitis pigmentosa was misdiagnosed due to retinal toxicity from hydroxychloroquine, demonstrating the value of genetic testing.