Understanding Genetic Factors in Common Diseases
Animal Models for Studying the Genetics of Complex Diseases
This research helps us learn more about the genetic reasons behind common conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes by using special mouse models.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013929 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many common health conditions that come with aging, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are influenced by small changes in our genes, but we don't fully understand how. This project aims to create new mouse models that closely resemble human genetic differences to uncover these hidden genetic risk factors. We've already seen that a gene called ELMO1 plays a role in kidney and heart problems related to diabetes in mice, and that vitamin B12 can help. By understanding how ELMO1 works and how it contributes to these issues, we hope to find new ways to protect against disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but future studies stemming from this work might be relevant for individuals with or at risk for diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, or heart conditions.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in the genetic underpinnings of common diseases or those seeking immediate clinical trials would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat complications of diabetes and other aging-related diseases, potentially using therapies like vitamin B12.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mouse model for ELMO1 is novel, the concept of using animal models to understand human genetic diseases is a well-established and successful approach in medical research.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maeda, Nobuyo — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Maeda, Nobuyo
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.