Approved research

Exploring the Interplay between Genetic Susceptibility and Lifestyle Habits in the Development of Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

Lay summary

Chronic inflammatory diseases (CID), such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, Crohn's disease, and type 2 diabetes, pose a significant burden on global health. The etiology of CIDs is multifactorial, with both genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors playing critical roles. Furthermore, patients with CIDs show the varied drug response, implying the need for personalized medicine. Understanding how these elements interact is crucial for developing effective prevention and management strategies.

Our study aims to identify specific genetic variants that, in combination with certain lifestyle habits, significantly elevate the risk of developing CIDs. These risk variants, adjusted for lifestyle factors, not only serve as predictors of inherent risk but also as targets for personalized medicine.

We also expect to develop a risk prediction model with the potential to guide personalized lifestyle interventions. By integrating genetic profiling with longitudinal lifestyle data encompassing alcohol, smoking, diet and physical activity, we intend to identify potential interactions that contribute to disease risk and progression. This research could lead to personalized prevention strategies and interventions related to lifestyle habits.

This 3-year study has the potential to transform our understanding of CIDs by highlighting the importance of gene-lifestyle interactions. It represents a significant step towards personalized medicine and could substantially reduce the burden of these diseases.