Understanding genetic interactions in diverse populations
Official title: meQTL Discovery in Admixed Human Genomes Facilitates Estimates of Epistasis
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10871292 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes can affect the risk of disease in people from different backgrounds, especially those with mixed ancestry, to help create better, personalized healthcare for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $281,751 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HG013565-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10871292 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals of African descent or those from admixed populations who may benefit from improved genetic risk assessments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely European ancestry may not receive direct benefits from this research, as it focuses on understanding genetic interactions in diverse populations.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations affect disease risk differently across various ancestries, particularly focusing on admixed populations. By analyzing a large dataset of genome-wide methylation and DNA variation from 500 South Africans, the study aims to identify ancestry-specific genetic interactions that influence health outcomes. The approach involves modeling the effects of genetic variants while controlling for environmental factors, allowing for a more accurate prediction of disease risk in individuals from diverse backgrounds. This could lead to improved personalized medicine strategies that are more effective for non-European populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the accuracy of genetic predictions for disease risk in diverse populations, leading to better-targeted healthcare interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic interactions across different ancestries can lead to significant advancements in personalized medicine, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Henn, Brenna M — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Henn, Brenna M
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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.