Exploring genetic differences in heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders among diverse populations
Official title: Investigating ancestry-specific genetic variation associated with HLBS phenotypes in diverse patient biobanks
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11031319 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes that are more common in African American individuals can affect heart, lung, blood, and sleep problems, with the goal of finding better ways to treat these issues and improve health for Black adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30HL172382-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031319 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals aged 21 and older who are willing to share their genetic and health information.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as African American or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations specific to African American individuals influence heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders. By utilizing a large biobank that includes diverse patient data, the study aims to identify ancestry-specific genetic markers that could lead to better understanding and treatment of these conditions. The approach focuses on addressing the significant health disparities faced by Black adults, who experience higher mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases. Participants will contribute their genetic information and health records to help uncover these critical insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatments for heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders in African American populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that focusing on diverse genetic backgrounds can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating health disparities, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, David — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Zhang, David
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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.