Faster tools to find shared stretches of DNA and genetic relatives
Scalable methods for identity by descent
This project builds faster computer methods to spot shared DNA segments so researchers can better understand genetic relationships and genetic factors in diverse populations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145914 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will develop and improve computer algorithms that detect regions of DNA shared between people, including very short shared segments that current tools miss. The team will optimize data structures and software so the methods can run on very large genetic databases (biobanks) from many populations. Work will include testing accuracy across different genomic regions and ethnic groups using existing genotype data and simulations. The project focuses on computational work and analysis rather than direct clinical visits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who already have genetic data in a biobank or who are willing to contribute DNA/genotype data to research projects, especially from diverse ethnic backgrounds, would be relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without any genetic data, or those expecting immediate clinical treatment changes from participation, are unlikely to gain direct personal health benefit from this computational project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these methods could reveal previously missed genetic links and improve discovery of genetic contributors to disease, helping with risk prediction and research that may lead to better treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous tools like RaPID and related algorithms have worked well for finding longer shared DNA segments in large cohorts, but detecting very short segments and ensuring equal accuracy across populations remains an active challenge.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhi, Degui — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Zhi, Degui
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 below.