Identifying genetic factors linked to tissue structure in normal tissues
Official title: Apply novel pathogenomic approaches to identify interpretable image QTLs for multiple normal tissues
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10820326 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to find out how our genes affect the way normal tissues look and work by using advanced computer techniques to analyze tissue images, which could help us understand how tissues develop and interact in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $412,613 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM153028-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10820326 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diverse ethnic backgrounds who have provided tissue samples for genetic analysis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced diseases or those who do not have tissue samples available for analysis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover genetic variants that influence the structure and morphology of normal tissues by utilizing advanced computational techniques. Researchers will analyze histology images from the Genotype-Tissue Expression Project, applying machine learning and computer vision to extract meaningful features. By correlating these features with genetic data, the study seeks to identify image quantitative trait loci (imQTLs) that can provide insights into tissue development and cellular interactions. This innovative approach has not been previously applied to the identification of imQTLs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of how genetic factors influence tissue morphology, potentially leading to improved diagnostic tools for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of identifying imQTLs has not been tested before, similar methodologies in genetic association studies have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Jie — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Jie
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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.