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From Mohlkelab

Research

We are identifying genetic variants that influence common human traits with complex inheritance patterns, and we seek to understand the biological function of the identified variants. Currently we are investigating susceptibility to type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as variation in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, body size, weight gain and early growth. In addition to examining the primary effects of genes, the lab is exploring the interaction of genes with environmental risk factors in disease pathogenesis. Approaches include genome-wide association studies, genetic epidemiology, resequencing, bioinformatic analysis, molecular biology, cell biology, and mouse models to compare high- and low-risk alleles in a whole-animal setting.

Type 2 diabetes

The Mohlke lab uses genome-wide approaches to localize diabetes-susceptibility genes as part of the Finland United States Investigation of NIDDM Genetics (FUSION) study. This study includes more than 6,000 Finnish individuals affected with type 2 diabetes or with normal glucose tolerance. To identify the underlying disease alleles, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are tested for evidence of association with type 2 diabetes and related quantitative traits. SNPs being studied span the human genome, and special emphasis is given to SNPs located near a set of high-priority genes. Common non-redundant SNPs are identified from genome databases and rare SNPs are identified by resequencing.

Weight gain

To investigate the role of genetics in weight gain and other traits associated with cardiovascular risk, the lab is partnering with investigators from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey (CLHNS). This study includes ~3,700 individuals in the Philippines for whom 20 years of anthropometric, lifestyle, and environmental data exist. Traits include longitudinal weight gain and related obesity measures, as well as the early origins of adult chronic diseases. In addition to examining the primary effects of genes, the lab is exploring the interaction of genes with environmental risk factors in disease pathogenesis.

Pathogenic mechanisms

A long-term goal of the Mohlke lab is to understand the biological function of susceptibility alleles identified through genome-wide studies. Hypothesizing that many common disease variants will have a regulatory effect on gene function, the lab is evaluating allelic-expression differences in mice.

Ultimately, the lab will create mouse models to compare high- and low-risk alleles in a whole-animal setting. Mice harboring the risk allele or haplotype will be used to examine interactions with diet, other environmental factors, and additional genes that may be relevant to diabetes and obesity.

Contact Info

Mohlke Lab
UNC at Chapel Hill, Department of Genetics
Genetic Medicine Building, Room 5106 - CB# 7264
120 Mason Farm Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7264

(Lab) 919-966-8542
(Fax) 919-843-4682