Australian researchers map DNA switches that trigger 16 common diseases
Garvan Institute study found 1,500 genes and 69,000+ DNA repeats linked to cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other conditions.
Researchers at Sydney's Garvan Institute examined the full genomes of 2,000 Australians. The researchers measured gene activity in 28 types of immune cells.
The researchers found 1,500 genes linked to 16 diseases including autoimmune disorders, cancers, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The team found 21,000 genes and 180,000 DNA positions that act as dimmer switches.
These control how active genes are. Researchers also found more than 69,000 DNA repeats.
Once called junk, they affect immune cell gene activity. These repeats are linked to asthma, Crohn's disease, breast and prostate cancer, high cholesterol and anaemia.
The researchers found two different switch types. Dimmer switches gradually control gene activity.
On-off switches block it completely. Different treatments are needed for each type.
The findings help develop targeted drugs for conditions without good treatments or where current drugs don't work.
- 2,000
- Australians studied
- 28 different types
- Immune cell types examined
- 1,500 genes across 16 diseases
- Genes linked to disease
- 69,000 plus
- DNA repeats identified
Why it mattersIdentifies new drug targets for common chronic diseases affecting millions of Australians as the population ages.
AustraliaAustralian research creates foundation for personalised treatments tailored to individual genetic profiles.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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