Through advanced genetic analysis and cutting-edge research approaches, an NIEHS initiative to understand the complex interplay of genes and the environment promises to shed light on risk factors for diseases ranging from asthma to diabetes. The project also will open the door for the biomedical community to conduct further research and expand knowledge in this important area.
The effort began in 2002, when NIEHS established the Environmental Polymorphisms Registry (see sidebar). Polymorphisms are variations in genes that may be linked to a variety of diseases. The goal of the initiative was to collect DNA samples from a large group of individuals and determine whether genes found in mice might also be important in humans, and whether polymorphisms in these genes potentially increase risk for ill health.
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Key to the research initiative is understanding how genetic variation can influence biological responses to environmental exposures and potentially increase disease risk. (Image courtesy of NIEHS)
The Personalized Environment and Genes Study delivers research innovation.
BY KELLEY CHRISTENSEN
https://factor.niehs.nih.gov/2021/9/feature/3-feature-gene-environment-interactions/index.htm
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