Last updated:
ID:
333554
Start date:
22 November 2024
Project status:
Current
Principal investigator:
Professor Gonghui Li
Lead institution:
Zhejiang University, China

Aims: Our research project aims to better understand and find new ways to diagnose and treat diseases of the urogenital system, which includes organs like the kidneys, bladder, and prostate. We want to discover the factors that increase the risk of these diseases and understand the biological mechanisms behind them. To do this, we will use advanced computer techniques to analyze a large and complex set of data.
Scientific Rationale: Urogenital diseases such as kidney cancer, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, and urinary stones are major health problems that affect many people worldwide. These diseases often develop due to a combination of genetic factors, environmental exposures, and other biological processes. However, because these factors are complex and interact in many ways, it has been difficult to fully understand how these diseases start and progress. Recent advancements in technology now allow us to collect and analyze vast amounts of biological data, known as “multi-omics” data, which includes information about genes, proteins, metabolites, and other factors. The UK Biobank is a large-scale resource that has collected this kind of data from hundreds of thousands of people. By using sophisticated machine learning and deep learning techniques, which are types of artificial intelligence, we can analyze this data to find new insights into the causes of urogenital diseases.
Project Duration: This project is planned to run over a period of three years. During this time, we will analyze the data, develop and test our computer models, and validate our findings through laboratory experiments and with additional patient data from our hospital.
Public Health Impact: The outcomes of this research have the potential to significantly improve public health. By identifying new risk factors and biomarkers for urogenital diseases, we can develop better tools for early diagnosis, which means diseases can be detected and treated sooner. This could lead to better outcomes for patients, including higher survival rates and improved quality of life. Furthermore, by understanding the molecular mechanisms behind these diseases, we can develop more targeted and effective treatments. In addition, the insights gained from this research can inform public health strategies and policies. Overall, this project aims to leverage cutting-edge technology and a wealth of biological data to make strides in the fight against urogenital diseases, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the public.