How ancestry-specific DNA differences change gene activity and cell behavior
Identifying ancestry-specific and distal components of disease-associated gene regulation and cellular function
This project builds new computer tools to find which genes and cell types are affected by DNA changes linked to autoimmune diseases in people from diverse ancestries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11182595 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will combine large genetic studies with gene-expression maps and 3-D genome information to link noncoding DNA variants to the genes they control. They will develop and test new algorithms designed to work well in underrepresented ancestry groups where existing data are limited. The team will analyze existing patient genetic and tissue datasets and predict which cell types and genes are most likely driving disease risk. The results are intended to prioritize genes for future laboratory validation and potential therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autoimmune diseases and individuals from underrepresented ancestral groups who have provided genetic or tissue samples would be the most relevant contributors to this work.
Not a fit: People without genetic or tissue data and those without autoimmune conditions are unlikely to see direct benefits from this grant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drug targets and help explain ancestry differences in autoimmune disease risk.
How similar studies have performed: Past GWAS and eQTL studies have linked many noncoding variants to genes in European populations, but ancestry-specific and distal mapping approaches remain relatively new and under development.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Amariuta-Bartell, Tiffany — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Amariuta-Bartell, Tiffany
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.