Exploiting the protein-protein interaction network to identify common genetic variants associated with complex diseases

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Thanks to recent advances in technology, it is nowadays possible to analyse our genetic material, the DNA. The DNA of two persons differs by approximately 4.5 million small genetic variants, which are the likely cause of the different predisposition to important diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disorders. It is, thus, important to understand which of these numerous variants are responsible for disease and the different response to therapies. This cannot be achieved with traditional biology experiments, but requires the use of complex computer algorithms. This project aims at developing such a computer program, which combines biological, mathematical and statistical tools with the vast amount of genetic and biological information available on the internet and the power of modern computers. In particular, the proposed study aims to evaluate the effect of genetic variants on health, by studying how these affect the structure and interaction between proteins, thus, causing disease. We will focus on cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, obesity and cancer which affect millions of people in the UK alone, but the method created will be applicable to any human disease. This computer program will be able to identify potentially damaging DNA variations and will represent an invaluable tool for researchers around the world who are engaged in the effort of understanding and treating diseases.