K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology
New Biological Insights from Norway's 30 Year Study
The objective of K. G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, based at NTNU in Norway, is to better understand human health and disease by studying genomic variation in populations. The Center is based on the data produced in the region by the HUNT study, one of the largest health studies ever performed with data dating back to its inception in 1984. Combining the genetic information gained from this uniquely comprehensive study with other health, other biobanks across Norway, as well as expertise from collaborators all over the world, including the University of Michigan, the Center is uniquely able to get a better understanding of disease outcomes for patients with everything from psoriasis to heart disease.
The center primarily works along the translational axis between population-based and laboratory-based research. Researchers systematically investigate common and rare genetic variants, focusing on gene bodies and regions involved in gene regulation, for association with major disease domains relevant to public health. They utilize known genetic variation to identify and evaluate modifiable causes of disease at the population level, leading to complex network approaches at genetic and population levels to uncover new biological insights. This capability is enabling a new generation of precision medicine, supporting clinicians and bioinformaticians in making new discoveries about the diseases work, and allowing for a future of improved treatment.
