Understanding how genetics and environment affect heart and metabolic health in different ethnic groups
Official title: Elucidating the ancestry-specific genetic and environmental architecture of cardiometabolic traits across All of Us ethnic groups
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10924045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and environment affect things like blood pressure and weight in different ethnic groups in the U.S., and it’s for anyone interested in helping us understand health differences so we can create better ways to keep everyone healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $231,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HL172037-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10924045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in health research, who are interested in understanding their genetic predispositions to cardiometabolic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not belong to the ethnic groups being studied or those with no interest in genetic research may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and environmental factors that influence cardiometabolic traits, such as blood pressure and body mass index, across various ethnic groups in the U.S. By analyzing whole-genome sequencing data from a diverse population, the study aims to uncover how these traits differ among groups and how they are shaped by ancestry and lifestyle. The findings could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies tailored to specific populations, ultimately improving health outcomes. Participants may contribute to a growing database that enhances our understanding of health disparities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized health strategies that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in diverse populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding health disparities through genetic and environmental studies, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connell, Jeffrey R — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: O'connell, Jeffrey R
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.