Discovering disease genes by analyzing genetic variations and gene activity.
Official title: An integrative approach to disease gene discovery combining genetic variation, gene expression, and epigenetics.
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11083162 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic differences can affect age-related macular degeneration, with the goal of finding better ways to understand and treat this eye condition, so patients can have more effective options in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 2, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00HG012222-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083162 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration or those with a family history of related eye diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-genetic forms of macular degeneration or those without a genetic predisposition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover the biological significance of genetic variations linked to diseases, particularly focusing on age-related macular degeneration. By integrating various types of molecular data, including gene expression and epigenetic information, the study seeks to develop new statistical methods to better understand how these genetic factors contribute to disease. Patients may benefit from improved insights into the genetic basis of their conditions, which could lead to more effective treatments. The research will utilize large datasets from existing studies to enhance the understanding of how genetic variations affect health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise treatments for age-related macular degeneration and other genetic conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar integrative approaches has shown promise in identifying disease-related genetic factors, suggesting potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Wei — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Wei
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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.