Improving privacy in genomic data analysis through secure outsourcing.
Official title: Secure Outsourcing of Genotype Imputation for Privacy-aware Genomic Analysis (RO1HE21)
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11035179 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to keep your genetic information safe while still helping researchers fill in missing pieces of your DNA data, so they can learn more about your health without putting your privacy at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 17, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $545,476 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HG012604-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035179 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals participating in large-scale genomic studies, such as those involved in the All of Us Program.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in genomic studies or do not have their genetic data analyzed may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the privacy of genomic data analysis by developing secure methods for outsourcing genotype imputation, a crucial process in interpreting genetic information. It addresses the challenges posed by large-scale genomic projects, which generate vast amounts of data that need to be analyzed while ensuring participant privacy. The approach involves using advanced computational techniques to predict missing genetic variants, thereby improving the quality and utility of genomic data without compromising security. Patients can benefit from this research as it aims to protect their sensitive genetic information while still allowing for valuable insights from genomic studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the privacy and security of genomic data analysis, allowing for safer participation in genetic studies.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of secure outsourcing in genomic analysis is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other fields, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harmanci, Arif Ozgun — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Harmanci, Arif Ozgun
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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.