How human evolution affects genetic traits and diversity
Official title: Human evolution and the genetic architecture of complex traits
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11090638 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our genes change over time and how that affects our traits, helping us understand more about genetic diversity and health, which could be useful for people with different backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $616,786 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158240-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090638 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds who are interested in the genetic factors influencing their health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in genetic research or those from highly homogeneous populations may not receive significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how evolutionary forces influence genetic variation and phenotypic traits in human populations. It explores the impact of recessive deleterious alleles and associative overdominance, moving beyond traditional racial classifications to focus on genetic relatedness. By utilizing advanced computational models and simulation tools, the study aims to understand complex traits and their interactions. Patients may benefit from insights into genetic diversity and health outcomes based on their genetic background.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic diversity and its implications for health and disease in different populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding genetic variation through evolutionary perspectives, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernandez, Ryan D. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Hernandez, Ryan D.
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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.