Exploring how genetics and lifestyle changes affect heart and metabolic health in East Africans

Understanding the contribution of genotype-by-lifestyle interactions to cardiometabolic risk in individuals of east African ancestry

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-10908426

This study looks at how moving from a traditional way of living to a city lifestyle affects heart and metabolic health in people from the Turkana community in Kenya, helping us understand how their genes and environment work together to influence their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10908426 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the shift from a traditional to an urban lifestyle impacts the risk of heart and metabolic diseases among individuals of East African ancestry, particularly the Turkana community in Kenya. By examining the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to these health risks, the study aims to understand the biological responses to lifestyle changes. The research will utilize advanced techniques to analyze gene activity and inflammatory responses in blood cells, providing insights into how these factors interact to influence health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals of East African ancestry, particularly those experiencing lifestyle changes that may affect their metabolic health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have East African ancestry or who are not experiencing significant lifestyle changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized health strategies that reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases in individuals of East African descent.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interplay between genetics and lifestyle can lead to significant advancements in managing chronic diseases, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, 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.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.