Approved Research

A cross-trait integration study of the genetic variants for cancer

Lay summary

To date, although lots of common genetic variants (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, SNP) have been identified from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the role of rare variants (variants present in less than 1% of the individuals are coined) in genome sequencing technology remains unknown in cancer. In addition, multiple diseases share the similar cause genetic variants or genes, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and lung cancer. Identification of them may help the early detection disease and precision prevention.

We will conduct a cross-trait integration study including multiple diseases on the UK Biobank samples to identify the rare and common genetic variants associated with cancer and cancer related traits. We will explore the key genes in different diseases and identify the share genes. Further, we will use bioinformatics algorithm to benchmark the genes which are important for the diseases.

In summary, this project may help identify the genetic background of multiple cancers and cancer related diseases. Key genetic variants and genes will be screened out. The total period is 36 months.