Understanding how genetic factors affect multiple diseases
Official title: Statistical methods for identifying pleiotropy between complex human traits
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10874524 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific genes can affect different health issues, like cancer and inflammation, to help create better treatments that are tailored to each person's unique genetic makeup.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 23, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $204,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HG012978-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10874524 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with complex traits or diseases such as cancer, Crohn's disease, or coronary artery disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with single-gene disorders or those not affected by the studied complex traits may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain genetic variants can influence multiple human traits and diseases, including cancers and inflammatory conditions. By analyzing data from extensive genome-wide association studies, the researchers aim to develop new statistical methods to identify common genetic factors that contribute to these traits. This could help in understanding the biological mechanisms behind diseases and improve drug development by predicting potential side effects. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more personalized treatment approaches based on their genetic makeup.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of multiple diseases by identifying shared genetic risk factors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic overlaps between traits, making this approach promising for further advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ray, Debashree — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ray, Debashree
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.