A center focused on genomic research for underrepresented communities
Official title: Diversity Center for Genome Research at Meharry
Funded at Meharry Medical College · NIH-10749781 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to create a special center at Meharry Medical College that focuses on understanding the genetics of chronic diseases like cancer in African American communities, and it aims to make it easier for people from these groups to participate in important research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Meharry Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $866,227 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3HG013248-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10749781 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals from underrepresented minority groups, particularly those of African ancestry, who may be affected by chronic diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as part of underrepresented minority groups or who are not affected by the targeted chronic diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to establish a Diversity Center for Genome Research at Meharry Medical College, specifically targeting underrepresented minority groups. The center will promote genomic research related to African ancestry by building infrastructure and forming interdisciplinary research teams. It will focus on understanding the genetic basis of chronic diseases prevalent in African Americans, such as cancer and inflammatory diseases. The project will also work on creating a blood repository to evaluate disease biomarkers and address recruitment barriers for these communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of chronic diseases that disproportionately affect African American populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives focusing on genomic studies in underrepresented populations have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Meharry Medical College
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shanker, Anil — Meharry Medical College
- Study coordinator: Shanker, Anil
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.