Understanding biases in genetic studies using family health history

Characterizing pervasive biases in genome-wide association study using family health history as proxy phenotypes

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10930982

This study is looking at how your family's health history can help find genetic links to Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions, so we can better understand who might be at risk and why.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930982 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how family health history can be used to identify genetic factors associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By analyzing data from biobanks, the study aims to improve the accuracy of genetic associations by addressing biases in current methodologies. It focuses on the use of proxy phenotypes, which allows researchers to gather information about patients indirectly through their family members. This approach could enhance the understanding of genetic risks for Alzheimer's and related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those under 11 years old.

Not a fit: Patients without a family history of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate genetic risk assessments for Alzheimer's disease, improving early detection and personalized treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar proxy methods has shown promise in enhancing genetic studies for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.