In conclusion, this special issue examined several topics relevant to the design and implementation of genetic research studies on AUD with diverse racial and ethnic populations. The articles examined the general theme of including diverse population groups in genetic studies and offered potential strategies for addressing problems common to such studies. The Commentary by Scott 2 identifies several historical events and other issues that may contribute to the reluctance of different racial/ethnic groups to participate in genetic research. Gene identification efforts have historically focused on individuals of European descent. The relevance of this work to other racial/ethnic groups is not well established, as there may be important allele frequency differences across ancestral groups related to genetic risk, alcohol-related consequences, and even treatment response. The inclusion of racial/ethnic minority groups in genetic research for AUD calls for best practices to increase subject participation and engagement, the development of collaborations among investigators, and improved research methodologies and technologies. These new practices promise to identify possibly novel genetic variants that may be absent in European Americans and a wider variety of relevant environmental
