Precision Medicine in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Genomic and Epigenetic Signatures in African Populations

Ezeani N. N.

Department of Biochemistry, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria

Corresponding Author: nk.ezeani@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease marked by joint inflammation, disability, and reduced quality of life. Precision medicine, which tailors treatment to individual molecular profiles, offers promise for improving RA outcomes. While genomic and epigenetic studies have identified biomarkers of susceptibility, progression, and therapeutic response, these insights are largely derived from European and Asian populations. African populations despite their unparalleled genetic diversity remain significantly underrepresented. This gap has critical implications, as African-specific variants, epigenetic modifications, and environmental exposures may influence disease risk and treatment response. The absence of African-focused research restricts the applicability of existing biomarkers and perpetuates disparities in care. To address this, large-scale multi-omics studies, robust biobanking, stronger ethical frameworks, and investment in local research capacity are needed. Identifying population-specific molecular signatures will improve early detection, prognosis, and individualized therapy for African patients. Incorporating African data into RA precision medicine is both a scientific necessity and an ethical imperative, ensuring equitable access to personalized healthcare.

Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, precision medicine, genomics, epigenetics and biomarkers.

CITE AS: Ezeani N. N. (2025). Precision Medicine in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Genomic and Epigenetic Signatures in African Populations. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL   JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND   EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES,6(3):228-237 https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJSES/2025/63.228237