Articles tagged with Genome Wide Association Studies
A study published in Nature describes the use of DNA analysis to pinpoint the geographic origins of individuals from a sample of Europeans. The research revealed striking genetic maps of Europe, allowing for precise classification of individuals by region.
Researchers discovered a significant increase in rare deletions and duplications of genetic material in people with schizophrenia, affecting 13.1% of cases and 10.4% of controls. Two new sites on Chromosomes 1 and 15 were implicated as potent risk factors for the disorder.
The National Human Genome Research Institute has awarded $31 million in grants to study the relationship between genetic variants and common diseases. Researchers will examine how genetic factors interact with environmental factors to influence health outcomes.
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified over 30 genetic regions associated with Crohn's disease, revealing surprising links between the condition and other common diseases like asthma. The research also highlights the complexity of the disease, suggesting hundreds of genes may be involved.
An international team of researchers has identified 21 new genetic risk factors for Crohn's disease, building on earlier studies that linked the disorder to disruptions in autophagy and immune system response. The findings, published in Nature Genetics, may lead to novel therapies and prevention strategies.
A study found that certain single nucleotide polymorphisms within the IL2RA gene region are associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Three specific SNPs were investigated and one was significantly associated with UK cases of JIA, especially in female patients and those positive for antinuclear antibodies.
A new study reveals that patients with higher percentages of southern European ancestry are more likely to experience severe Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) manifestations, including nephritis and increased autoantibody levels. This association was found to be inversely related to northern European ancestry.
Researchers at USC have identified a novel genetic association between fasting glucose levels and melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B), increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes. The study found a connection between MTNR1B and circadian rhythm regulation, suggesting potential links to sleep disorders.
Researchers identified genetic variants that influence treatment outcome for smoking cessation treatments, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and bupropion. These variants may help tailor treatment to individual smokers, increasing the likelihood of success.
Researchers at USC identified a gene variant associated with fasting glucose levels, providing new insights into blood sugar regulation. The study found that genetic variation in the G6PC2 gene may be responsible for reducing insulin secretion and increasing glucose concentrations.
A new statistical tool could help explain gene study variations by tracing coding sequences of genes to a single ancestral copy, accounting for genetic differences among subpopulations. Researchers will use this approach to analyze data from an existing database on stroke risk in black children, improving disease diagnosis and treatment.
A meta-analysis of over 26,000 participants found two known genes and 10 new ones related to human growth, influencing body size by approximately 3.5cm. The study also revealed connections between microRNA let-7 and other genes, as well as effects on chromatin structure.
Researchers developed a new analysis technique to identify genes influencing migraine susceptibility. By studying 1700 patients and their relatives, they found a significant genetic locus linked to female migraineurs and discovered that specific types of pain are more closely linked to specific genetic loci.
A £30 million follow-up study will analyze 120,000 DNA samples from people with 25 common diseases, including multiple sclerosis and asthma. The research aims to identify the genes underlying these conditions and develop new treatments.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered that rare genetic variants can be associated with a significantly lower risk of developing high blood pressure. The study found that individuals carrying one defective copy of a gene had a 60% lower risk of developing hypertension by age 60 compared to the general population.
Researchers found that genetic effects on obesity vary by age and may be missed in replication studies if not accounted for. The study identified a specific gene variant associated with childhood obesity, but its influence diminishes after age 45.
A recent study has identified two common genetic variants associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers and former smokers. The variants, present in about half of the Caucasian population, were found to increase the risk by 28-81%.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have identified six new genes that play a role in type 2 diabetes, including one also linked to prostate cancer. The study provides insights into the mechanisms controlling glucose levels in the blood, offering potential new methods for preventing or treating the disease.
A large multicenter study suggests new genetic markers for Crohn's disease, specifically affecting the Ashkenazi Jewish population. The study found evidence of genes causing familial Crohn's Disease on chromosomes 1 and 3, as well as a previously unidentified region on chromosome 13.
Researchers have developed new mathematical models to infer ancestral origins from genomic data, significantly improving accuracy. Additionally, a novel technique for mapping disease genes using admixture linkage disequilibrium has been created, offering a powerful approach for identifying genetic determinants of common diseases.
A recent study discovered that variants of the LRP5 gene are linked to a significant increase in fracture risk by up to 20 percent and lower levels of bone mineral density, particularly in the spine and hip. The research, conducted on a large-scale evidence base, suggests that genetic factors play a major role in determining bone health.
Case Western Reserve University researchers identified genes associated with hereditary components of colorectal cancer in a genome-wide scan. The study found susceptibility genes on chromosomes 1p, 15q, and 17p, which may lead to better cancer screening strategies.
A genome-wide association study on Parkinson's disease has made its raw data available to researchers through the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) and the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The study, funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, provides valuable insights into the genetic factors underlyi...
Researchers have identified an additional seven gene regions associated with coeliac disease, revealing a connection to type 1 diabetes. The study also highlights the importance of immune response genes in the development of coeliac disease, providing new insights into its causes and potential treatments.
A genome-wide search for social genes has found that Dictyostelium discoideum have more than 100 genes regulating their cooperative behavior. Cheating mutations were identified in over 100 genes, highlighting the complex mechanisms behind social cooperation.
A genome-wide association study identified a new gene locus associated with LDL cholesterol levels, potentially providing insight into biological mechanisms and novel therapeutic targets. The discovery may aid in the development of new drugs to fight cardiovascular disease.
Researchers discovered a genetic variant in the BCL11A gene associated with higher levels of fetal hemoglobin and milder beta-thalassemia symptoms. This finding has implications for developing targeted therapies to alleviate hemoglobin deficiencies in people with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia.
A new study found evidence that common genetic variants linked to osteoarthritis may also play a minor role in human height. The variants, associated with an average difference of about 0.4 cm, lie in the region of the GDF5 gene, which influences cartilage development and bone growth.
Researchers have discovered more than 25 genetic variants associated with lipid levels, including seven previously unknown genes. These variants may lead to new strategies for treating and preventing coronary artery disease.
Researchers found a link between a specific gene variant and autism, particularly when inherited from mothers. The study suggests that the CNTNAP2 gene may play a role in brain cell development and differentiation.
A team of experts is conducting a genome-wide association scanning study to analyze DNA samples from 14,000 people with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and healthy controls. This study aims to identify common genetic variations that increase the risk of the disease, providing valuable insights into its causes.
A new method using 454 sequencing has identified significant human genetic variation, including structural variations that play a crucial role in genetic diversity. The study found over 1000 structural variations in two individuals and suggests that these variations may have notable physical effects on an individual.
Researchers from Boston University and NHLBI analyzed genetic differences associated with cardiovascular disease and other disorders using Framingham Heart Study data. The study found associations between specific genomic regions and characteristics such as blood pressure, lipids, and diabetes.
Researchers at Hebrew SeniorLife's Institute for Aging Research have examined nearly 100,000 genetic markers to determine which genes are responsible for osteoporosis and longevity. The studies found associations between specific genetic variants and traits such as bone mineral density and age at death.
A new study found that chronically lonely individuals have altered gene-expression patterns, including increased inflammatory signalling. This molecular signature may provide a framework for understanding the link between social isolation and diseases like heart disease, infection, and cancer.
The NIH has funded eight genome-wide association studies to identify novel genetic variants associated with increased risk for common diseases like prostate cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. These studies will also measure personal environmental exposures using wearable sensors.
Scientists have identified the HMGA2 gene, a common variant of which directly influences height. The study found that variations in this gene make some people taller than others, with 25% of white Europeans carrying two 'tall' versions and approximately 1cm difference in height.
A study of over 300,000 genetic markers found a strong association between the ORMDL3 gene and an increased risk of childhood asthma. The research suggests that identifying this gene could lead to improved prevention and diagnosis of asthma.
Researchers found genomic determinants underlying alcohol and tobacco use on chromosomes 1, 3, and 4. A common locus for both was discovered on chromosome 1, with a linked area for smoking also present. The study suggests sex-specific genetic factors may contribute to the observed sex differences in alcohol and tobacco use rates.
A widely studied plant species has revised its understanding of sex evolution and genetic heritage, with self-pollination emerging at least a million years ago. This finding contradicts previous estimates and suggests that sex may be more trouble than it's worth in plant evolution.
Two genes influencing MS risk have been conclusively linked to the disease, shedding new light on its causes and potential treatments. The findings may provide hope for at least 350,000 Americans affected by MS.
Researchers identified three gene variants linked to HIV control and progression, providing new targets for therapies and vaccines. The study's findings could lead to improved treatments and more effective immune responses against the virus.
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified three genes associated with restless legs syndrome (RLS), a condition characterized by an urge to move and paresthesia in the legs. The findings provide new insights into the genetic causes of RLS, which affects up to 10% of people over 65 years old.
Researchers have discovered three gene variants in HIV-infected patients that may help fight off the virus and delay AIDS onset. The genes, particularly HLA-C, could be key targets for an HIV vaccine designed to boost immune system control.
Researchers have confirmed six new genetic variants that increase the likelihood of developing coronary artery disease. These variants, found in chromosomes 2, 6, 10 and 15, as well as two on chromosome 1 and one on chromosome 9, are common in white Europeans and explain a significant proportion of heart attacks.
A study has identified a new genetic risk factor for coeliac disease, which lacks a protective DNA sequence in the interleukin-2 and interleukin-21 gene region. This discovery could pave the way towards improved diagnostics and treatments for the condition.
A study has identified a common gene, GAB2, that appears to increase a person's risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. The researchers found that the healthy form of the GAB2 gene may protect brain cells from developing tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
A UK collaboration of scientists has identified three new genes that predispose individuals to develop type 2 diabetes. The study confirms the link between two previously-identified genes and brings the total number of genes known to be involved in the disease to nine.
A genome-wide search has uncovered three novel regions of human DNA that contain clear genetic risk factors for type 2 diabetes, as well as a genomic region associated with elevated blood triglycerides. The study reveals surprising new avenues for disease research, treatment and prevention.
A research team has identified several novel genetic variations associated with the risk of Crohn's disease, which could improve understanding of the disease process and lead to new therapies. The study found that one of the newly identified genes, ATG16L1, plays a crucial role in autophagy, a biological pathway involved in inflammation.
Scientists have identified a strong association between an increase in BMI and a variation of the FTO gene, which carries a 70% higher risk of obesity. The study found that people with two copies of the FTO allele are on average 3kg heavier than those with no copies.
Researchers at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have discovered a new gene that increases the risk of developing schizophrenia. The study, which analyzed over 500,000 genetic markers, found a significant link between a chromosomal region called PAR1 and the disease.
Researchers have identified several genes linked to nicotine dependence, including CHRNA5 and NRXN1, which play a role in regulating communication between nerve cells. These findings could lead to the development of more effective smoking cessation therapies tailored to an individual's genetic traits.
Researchers mapped genetic makeup of type-2 diabetes in unprecedented detail, identifying four loci that correspond to a 70% genetic background risk. The study also reveals a mutation in the zinc transporter SLC30A8, potentially leading to new treatments for insulin deficiency.
A Stanford-led study has identified a specific region on chromosome 15 that may be linked to severe depression. The research, which analyzed 650 families with a history of repeated bouts of severe depression, found highly significant evidence for genetic linkage to the condition.
Researchers analyzed 1,200 genome-wide polymorphisms in 432 Indian individuals, revealing low levels of genetic divergence across geographically and linguistically diverse populations. The study provides a foundation for future research on the genetic basis of common diseases in Asian Indians.
Researchers have compiled genetic information on over 1,000 patients and controls in the largest-scale search for genes underlying sporadic ALS. The study aims to clarify the role of genes or lack thereof in the disease, with potential implications for therapies and a cure.
The Genetic Association Information Network (GAIN) has selected six studies to undergo whole genome analysis to identify genetic contributions to common illnesses. The studies focus on disorders of the brain, skin, and kidney, including depression, bipolar disorder, and diabetes.
An international team, led by UCLA's Roel Ophoff, is conducting a four-year study on schizophrenia that will analyze the human genome of approximately 850 Dutch patients and 750 control subjects to pinpoint related genes. This approach aims to separate false clues from true genetic variants associated with the disorder.
A new study recruiting up to 2,000 people from the remote Isles of Orkney aims to discover genes that predispose individuals to osteoporosis. The research will utilize a unique population isolated from the UK mainland, allowing for easier tracking and identification of genetic factors.