Addenbrooke’s takes part in largest ever study of genetics and common diseases |
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Addenbrooke’s has been part of a £9 million study - one of largest and most successful academic collaborations to date. Organised by the Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium, the study examined DNA samples from 17,000 people across the UK , bringing together 50 leading research groups and 200 scientists. The research has substantially increased the number of genes known to play a role in the development of some of our most common diseases. Addenbrooke’s researchers have identified genes and areas of the genome that influence a person's susceptibility to Crohn’s disease and others that increase the chances of developing type 1 diabetes. In addition they have found a single region which influences both Crohn’s and diabetes. This is the first time a genetic link has been identified between the two diseases. Dr Miles Parkes, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Addenbrooke's Hospital and the University of Cambridge said: "There is a lot of follow-up work required but the genetic findings themselves have already provided some major leads regarding possible new treatment options." Professor John Todd, University of Cambridge said: "This new link is a possible new avenue to understand how they occur and advances in the treatment of Crohn’s disease may give us clues on how to treat type 1 diabetes."
PR & Communications Department, Box 53, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ;
Tel: 01223 274 433
Email: press@addenbrookes.nhs.uk |
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Last updated: 13 June 2007
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