Understanding how mutations in DNA change over time
Official title: Analysis of Somatic Mutations in Longitudinal Whole-genome Sequencing Data
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10875490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in our DNA happen over time by checking blood samples from about 450 people taken 15 years apart, to see if these changes are connected to diseases like cancer and heart problems, and to understand how they might vary from person to person.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00HG011657-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have provided blood samples and are part of the Utah CEPH pedigrees, particularly those with a family history of cancer or cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have access to the Utah CEPH pedigree data or those without a history of somatic mutation-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in somatic mutations—mutations that occur in non-germline cells—over time using high-coverage whole-genome sequencing. By analyzing blood samples from approximately 450 individuals taken 15 years apart, the study aims to uncover the rate of these mutations and their potential links to diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. The research will also explore how these mutation rates differ among individuals and their correlation with various health outcomes, providing insights into the genetic factors influencing disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of cancer and other diseases, potentially guiding more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding germline mutations, but this approach to studying somatic mutations over time is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steely, Cody — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Steely, Cody
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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.