Molecular Genetics Polygenic
The Complex Traits Genetics research team focuses on the genetics of type 2 diabetes and related traits. We are internationally recognized as a world leader in understanding the variation in the human genome related to a range of diseases.
Our team has a wide range of skills including statistical, molecular and epidemiological approaches to human genetics. We jointly led the type 2 diabetes component to the WTCCC genome wide association study. This work, alongside that of other groups, resulted in an unprecedented leap in the understanding of the genetic component to type 2 diabetes. In addition to new type 2 diabetes gene loci we, with collaborators, have helped identify gene loci that influence adiposity (the “fat gene” -FTO), height (e.g. HMGA2), birth weight and circulating biomarker levels (for example thyroid hormones, beta-carotene, and protein levels). We are now trying to understand in more depth how genetic variation influences type 2 diabetes and related common diseases and traits.
For more information on this research group please visit the website View Website