Research Questions and Objectives
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including coronary heart disease, hypertension, heart failure, and stroke, are major global health challenges. This study investigates the impact of systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, chronic kidney disease) on CVD onset and progression, and analyzes the roles of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors (e.g., smoking, diet, physical activity). By integrating multi-omics data (e.g., genomics, proteomics), we aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms of CVD and identify clinically significant biomarkers for early detection, precise diagnosis, and personalized treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the global burden of CVD.
Scientific Rationale
Cardiovascular diseases are complex, multifactorial conditions influenced by genetic susceptibility, systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease), and environmental factors (e.g., smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity). Research has shown:
Systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, chronic kidney disease) significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Specific genetic variants may influence disease development by regulating metabolism, inflammation, or vascular function.
Unhealthy lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, high-salt diet) can exacerbate genetic and environmental risks.
Multi-omics data (e.g., genomics, proteomics) provide molecular-level insights into disease mechanisms.
Biomarkers (e.g., proteins, metabolites) hold significant potential for early detection, disease prediction, and personalized treatment.
By leveraging UK Biobank’s rich data resources, we can unravel the complex mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and their comorbidities, supporting prevention, treatment, and public health strategies.