UTRGV Center for Genome Research: expanding genomics to improve health in South Texas
Official title: UTRGV Center for Genome Research
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11421428 · Data updated 2026-11-12
AUTRGV is building a genome research center to grow genomics capacity, train more genomic scientists, and engage the community while focusing on diseases important to South Texas like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and major depressive disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,955,932 |
| NIH project number | 5U54HG013247-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11421428 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients in South Texas with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or major depressive disorder, and community members who may participate in genomic studies or education programs.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals not affected by liver disease or depression or those not involved in genomics education or studies may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This center aims to expand genomic research capabilities and develop a workforce through two innovative projects and a strong training pipeline. It includes a Workforce Development Core to guide pre-college students toward genetics careers and a Community Engagement Core to boost genomic literacy and study participation. The center emphasizes team science to tackle diseases prevalent in the region, with initiatives to broaden participation and collaboration among clinicians, researchers, and students.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the center could accelerate genomics discoveries and create a trained local workforce that helps diagnose, understand, and eventually improve care for diseases affecting the community.
How similar studies have gone: Previous regional genome centers have shown that workforce development and community engagement improve participation and research relevance.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams-Blangero, Sarah a. — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Williams-Blangero, Sarah a.
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.