Using genetic tools to understand heart disease risk in diverse populations

Evaluation of Polygenic Risk Scores as a Valid Instrument to Conduct Mendelian Randomization in Diverse Ancestry Populations

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10820258

This study is looking at how genetic factors affect heart disease in people from different backgrounds, aiming to make genetic testing more accurate for everyone, especially those who haven't been studied as much before.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10820258 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how polygenic risk scores (PRS) can be used to understand the genetic factors contributing to coronary artery disease (CAD) in people from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. It aims to improve the accuracy of these genetic tools by examining their effectiveness across different populations, particularly those that have been historically underrepresented in genetic research. The study will analyze the relationship between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) levels and CAD, while considering both genetic and environmental factors that may influence this relationship. By doing so, the research seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of heart disease risk in diverse groups.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds who are at risk for coronary artery disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to coronary artery disease or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate risk assessments and personalized prevention strategies for heart disease in diverse populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic tools for understanding disease risk, but this approach specifically addressing diverse ancestry populations is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.