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Genetics of Heart Disease
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Organisation name
Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT
Organisation sector
Academic Institute
Applicant name(s)
Pradeep Natarajan
Funders/ Sponsors
Safe Projects
Project ID
OFHS240141
Lay summary
The overall goal of our research is to improve the prevention and management of heart disease. We aim to discover genetic factors that are associated with heart disease and related conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. We will study both inherited and acquired genetic factors alongside clinical information to help us understand what causes heart disease. We will identify genetic and biological pathways that can potentially be targeted for prevention and treatment of heart disease and related disorders. We also aim to develop methods of measuring the genetic risk of various types of heart disease. In doing so, we will create systems of identifying people at high risk and developing strategies to reduce and manage risk. Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Research conducted on the genetics of heart disease thus far only partially explains the prevalence of various types of heart disease. Additionally, it is unclear why certain populations have a higher risk of developing heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, and associated disorders, such as diabetes and obesity. Larger and more diverse groups of research populations are needed to understand the genetic factors that cause heart disease, the genetic factors that protect against heart disease, and why some people are at higher risk than others.
Public benefit statement
Our research to identify genes and genetic regions associated with heart disease and related disorders has significant implications for clinical prevention and treatment. Identification of these genes can provide key information about the genetic and biological mechanisms to consider in the prevention and treatment of heart disease. The knowledge gained from our research can be used to select targets for drug development, providing new treatment strategies and ultimately improving patient outcomes. Furthermore, by improving risk measurement methods, we hope that patients at high risk will be identified early and that personalized preventive steps will be taken to improve their heart health.
Request category type
Public Health Research
Other approval committees
Project start date
04/06/2026
Latest approval date
17/02/2025
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Dataset(s) name
Safe Setting
Access type
TRE