Genome-wide cross-trait analysis for genetic architecture of pan-cancer by UK Biobank

Genome-wide cross-trait analysis for genetic architecture of pan-cancer by UK Biobank

Lay summary

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple risk loci associated with pan-cancer (collectively referred to 33 solid tumors); however, whether these cancers share a common genetic etiology is still not determinate. In this study, we aim to make full use of pan-cancer GWAS databases from UK Biobank to identify more cancer risk-associated susceptibility loci, and explore shared single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) influencing the development of pan-cancer.

We will use multiple bioinformatics methods (e.g., partitioned LD score regression (LDSC) analysis, cross-trait meta-analysis, gene-set analysis and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis), and a series of biological experiments to explore the roles of shared genetic variants in the development of pan-cancer. Furthermore, we will construct pan-cancer risk prediction model to help identify individuals at high risk of developing cancers. Totally, this research project may help us identify shared genetic variants associated with pan-cancer risk, and make us better understand the molecular mechanisms of cancers development. We may spend about two years to complete this project.