Understanding the Genetics of Complex Traits and Rare Diseases
Methods for leveraging family-based designs and summary data to elucidate complex trait genetics
This project aims to create better ways to use genetic information from families and large databases to uncover the genetic roots of common and rare human health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092832 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on developing new statistical methods to analyze genetic information from both large population studies and family studies. These new methods will help researchers better understand the genetic causes of complex traits and diseases, especially rare conditions and health issues in children. By using existing genetic information from biobanks and publicly available summaries, this work seeks to overcome challenges like population differences and improve the power of genetic discoveries. The goal is to make it easier and more ethical to learn from vast amounts of genetic data without needing to share individual patient details.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is focused on developing analytical tools and does not directly involve patient participation, but it aims to benefit individuals affected by complex genetic traits, rare disorders, and childhood health conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by conditions with a genetic component or who are not part of large genetic databases may not directly benefit from this specific methodological development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of the genetic causes of many diseases, potentially paving the way for new ways to prevent or treat them.
How similar studies have performed: While population-based genetic methods have advanced significantly, this project focuses on developing novel statistical methods for family-based designs and leveraging summary data, an area that has received less attention.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ray, Debashree — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ray, Debashree
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 below.