Understanding how environmental factors affect genetic traits in diverse populations
Official title: APOL1 as a model to quantify and identify environmental modifiers of genetic associations in diverse populations
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10983483 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how things in our environment, like where we live and our social conditions, can affect the way a specific gene related to kidney disease works, especially in African Americans, to help find better ways to prevent and treat kidney issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 9, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $437,443 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HG013814-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983483 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of African descent, particularly those with a family history of kidney disease or related health disparities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have African ancestry or those without any genetic predisposition to kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how environmental factors can modify the effects of genetic traits, specifically focusing on the APOL1 gene, which is linked to kidney disease in African American populations. By analyzing large datasets that include diverse populations, the study aims to identify social and environmental determinants that influence health outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted prevention and treatment strategies based on their genetic and environmental backgrounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for kidney disease in populations affected by the APOL1 gene.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic and environmental interactions in health outcomes, making this approach promising yet still relatively novel in its specific focus on the APOL1 gene.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crawford, Dana C — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Crawford, Dana C
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.