How common DNA changes combine to influence complex illnesses
Functional and population genetic architectures of complex disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-11116952
This project looks at how many common non-coding DNA differences combine to change disease risk and biology for people with complex conditions like neuropsychiatric disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11116952 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are analyzing genetic and epigenetic data from people to find which non-coding DNA variants affect gene regulation in the specific cell types tied to disease. They combine population genetics, statistical linking of genetic and epigenetic maps, and functional lab work to trace how many small variants act together on genes and biological pathways. The team aims to map the gene programs and networks through which these variants produce disease-related changes. Although mostly data and lab-based, the findings could point to new biological targets or risk markers relevant to patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with, or at risk for, complex genetically influenced conditions (for example neuropsychiatric disorders) who can contribute genetic data or biospecimens to research efforts.
Not a fit: People with conditions unrelated to complex genetic diseases, or those unwilling to share genetic or clinical data, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic genetics research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal biological pathways and targets that lead to better tests or new treatment strategies for complex diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have linked some non-coding variants to regulatory elements and disease, but comprehensive mapping of how thousands of variants act together is still novel and incomplete.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SUNYAEV, SHAMIL — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: SUNYAEV, SHAMIL
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.