Genome-wide association studies of circulating blood metabolites

Summary

Metabolites are small molecules that vary widely across individuals as a result of genetic and environmental exposures. They are the bridge between our genes and diseases. We want to identify genetic markers of human metabolites to improve our understanding of diseases and potentially new drug development

This research was organised by Professor Tim Spector of King's College London and was carried out over a period of 4 years. We measured 722 metabolites in plasma in 8809 individuals and looked at whether their levels varied depending on each individual genetic make-up. 

We are reporting 74 novel genomic regions that influence human metabolism.  Our results shed light on genetic mechanisms controlling human metabolism, which can have many practical implications. We need to further investigate how the genes identified control of metabolic processes.

We would like to thank all of the individuals who volunteered to participate in this Study.

Please see here for a link to the latest publication from this study.