NIH-funded research R01 grant

Improving genetic risk prediction for complex diseases like cardiovascular issues

Official title: Methods for Enhancing Polygenic Risk Prediction Models for Complex Disease

Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11085221 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on improving how we predict the risk of heart diseases by combining genetic information with other important factors, so that patients can get better screening and prevention options tailored to their needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$769,981
NIH project number5R01HL169458-03
Project IDNIH-11085221 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases or those identified as being at higher genetic risk.

Less likely to help

Patients with no genetic predisposition or those without relevant clinical or environmental risk factors may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing polygenic risk scores (PRS) to better predict the risk of complex diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases. By integrating genetic data with clinical, environmental, and social factors, the study aims to create more accurate risk prediction models. This approach addresses the limitations of current PRS models, which often overlook rare genetic variants and other important risk factors. Patients may benefit from improved screening and prevention strategies based on these enhanced models.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate risk assessments and targeted prevention strategies for patients at risk of cardiovascular diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in integrating genetic and non-genetic factors for disease risk prediction, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ritchie, Marylyn D — University of Pennsylvania
  • Study coordinator: Ritchie, Marylyn D

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.