STUDY TITLE: Genome-Wide Association Study of Susceptibility to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
SUMMARY: Identification of 5 novel variants associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
OVERVIEW: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease that is characterized by scarring of lungs which makes it hard to breathe. Over 15,000 new cases of IPF are reported yearly in the United States. However, the cause of IPF is not known and there is also no cure. This study sought to identify genetic factors that contribute to the risk of developing IPF. Researchers utilized data from over 11,000 individuals of European descent. They identified 5 novel variants associated with susceptibility to IPF, and confirmed 11 previously reported variants. Two of the novel variants are near genes that regulate chromosome separation during cell division, suggesting that risk for IPF is tied to fundamental cellular level processes.
DID YOU KNOW? Although the cause of IPF is unknown, some possible risk factors include a history of smoking and working around dust or fumes. Age is also a risk factor – the disease develops gradually, meaning symptoms may not be apparent until they are severe. [SOURCE]
SAMPLE RESULTS: Learn more about the Nebula Research Library.
IPF-ASSOCIATED VARIANTS: rs35705950, rs2076295, rs7725218, rs2077551, rs59424629, rs2897075, rs2013701, rs12696304, rs12699415, rs12610495, rs62023891, rs9577395, rs78238620, rs41308092, rs28513081, rs537322302
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Lung anatomy (Video)
WEEKLY UPDATE: March 16, 2020
