Understanding how genes interact with context to shape complex traits
Official title: Understanding and using gene-by-context interactions in human complex trait genetics
Funded at Clemson University · NIH-11398133 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This NIH grant looks at how our genes work together with other factors to influence common diseases and traits, with the goal of improving risk predictions for people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $373,478 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM146868-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11398133 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals interested in how genetics influence common diseases and traits, especially those from diverse backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
People with conditions not influenced by polygenic risk scores or those outside studied populations may see limited immediate benefit.
What this research studies
The project studies how gene-by-context interactions affect the genetic architecture of complex traits and how this impacts polygenic risk scores. It uses large-scale genetic data to explore why prediction models perform differently across populations and contexts. The work aims to improve our understanding so risk predictions can be more accurate for diverse groups. The research is designed to inform precision medicine approaches, potentially guiding prevention and treatment strategies in the future.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better, more accurate genetic risk predictions could help tailor prevention and treatment to individuals and populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous GWAS and PRS work have shown promise, but this project emphasizes improving accuracy across populations and contexts which remains a developing area.
Where this research is happening
-
Clemson University
Clemson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morgante, Fabio — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Morgante, Fabio
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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.