A more complete, inclusive map of the human genome

Human Pangenome Reference

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11180273

Creating a fuller human DNA reference by adding genomes from people of diverse ancestries so researchers worldwide can use it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11180273 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

The team is collecting high-quality DNA sequences from people across broad biogeographical ancestries to build a more complete human pangenome. They will produce haplotype-resolved genome assemblies, align these assemblies, and add gene annotations for each one so genetic differences are easier to find and compare. All core samples will be consented for open-access sharing and the project will develop file formats and software tools to help others work with the pangenome. The consortium will coordinate with the broader scientific community and gather feedback to address technical and ethical challenges and improve adoption.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People willing to donate DNA and related health information are potential participants, with special interest in individuals from underrepresented ancestral backgrounds.

Not a fit: Individuals seeking immediate medical treatment or those unwilling to share genetic data publicly are unlikely to receive direct benefits from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could help researchers identify genetic contributors to disease more accurately and make genetic tests and treatments more equitable across populations.

How similar studies have performed: Earlier efforts produced a draft human pangenome and useful tools, and this project builds on those successes to expand representation and usability.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.