Understanding the factors that influence disease risk beyond genetics and environment

Master regulators of unexplained variation in disease risk

['FUNDING_R01'] · VAN ANDEL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-10918058

This study is looking at why some people get diseases while others don’t, even when they have the same genes and live in similar environments, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our bodies might respond differently to health challenges.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVAN ANDEL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GRAND RAPIDS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10918058 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the unexplained variation in disease risk that cannot be attributed solely to genetics or environmental factors. By studying monozygotic twins and isogenic animal models, the project aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that contribute to individual differences in disease susceptibility. The researchers will explore how biological systems exhibit probabilistic properties that lead to unique phenotypic variations, which could provide insights into personalized medicine. The goal is to better understand each individual's disease potential and the factors that contribute to their health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with complex diseases or traits that show unexplained variability in their health outcomes.

Not a fit: Patients with well-defined genetic or environmental causes for their diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized approaches in predicting and managing disease risk for individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the molecular basis of phenotypic variability can lead to significant advancements in precision medicine, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

GRAND RAPIDS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.