How recent evolution shapes human genetics and infectious diseases
Evolution on epidemiologically-relevant timescales
Researchers will use genetics and computer models to learn how recent evolutionary changes in people and germs affect infectious disease risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11355421 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses new mathematical models and large-scale computer analyses of human and pathogen genomes to trace genetic changes over the last 10,000 years. They study DNA from diverse human populations, including admixed groups, and compare those patterns with pathogens and primate genomes to see how farming, migration, and disease exposure changed genes. Most work is computational and lab-based rather than testing treatments, focusing on identifying genetic signatures of rapid evolution. Over the next years the researchers will refine methods across multiple timescales to better connect evolutionary history with current health risks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal contributors would be people willing to share genetic data or biospecimens from diverse or admixed populations, including those with histories of infectious disease exposure.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate new treatments are unlikely to benefit, since this is basic research focused on genetic patterns rather than clinical care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could identify genes and evolutionary patterns that explain who is more or less susceptible to infections, informing future prevention or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genomic and computational studies have successfully found evolutionary signals linked to infectious disease risk, so this work builds on established but still-developing methods.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldberg, Amy — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Goldberg, Amy
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.