Complex diseases such as asthma and type 2 diabetes arise from the interplay between genetic variation and environmental (lifestyle) factors. Each individual carries genetic changes that may predispose them to disease, and exposures like smoking, diet, or alcohol intake can accelerate this risk. Understanding how genetic and non-genetic factors jointly contribute to complex disorders has been a major research focus over recent decades. Advances in genomics and epidemiology have identified thousands of variables linked to disease risk, improving detection, prevention, and treatment. However, these factors are often studied in isolation. A key challenge remains the limited availability of cohorts that integrate clinical, lifestyle, and genetic data for the same participants.
The Computational Genomics Group at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), led by Dr. Torrents, seeks to address this gap by analyzing the combined effects of genetic and lifestyle factors on disease risk. The UK Biobank cohort provides an unparalleled resource for this purpose. Using this dataset, we aim to develop risk predictors that integrate genetic and non-genetic information, shifting the focus from disease to patient. These disease-wide risk scores will enable individuals to anticipate their risk based on both inherited and modifiable factors. Furthermore, we will investigate gene-environment interactions, generating maps that can inform personalized prevention strategies designed to delay or even prevent disease onset.
This project is expected to span three years. Its outcomes will advance understanding of the pathophysiology of complex diseases, yield high-impact scientific publications, and contribute to more precise diagnosis and treatment approaches tailored to individual patients.