National Human Genome Research Institute 5U54HG013247-04

Research Project 2 - Genomic Approaches to Pollutome Effects on Risk of Major Depression in Hispanic Pedigrees

The award funds a research project investigating the effects of pollutants on the risk of major depression in Hispanic pedigrees using genomic approaches. It includes measuring pollutants in plasma samples, analyzing genotype-environment interactions, and replicating findings in an independent cohort to better understand MDD etiology.

Description

This project aims to measure individual levels of organic and inorganic pollutants in large multigenerational pedigrees from the Mexican American Family Study (MAFS). It involves direct measures of 72 persistent organic pollutants and 28 metals in plasma samples, as well as indirect spatially-imputed air pollutant exposure. The study uses a novel statistical approach to control for genetic factors, maximizing environmental signals, and investigates genotype×pollutome interactions. The project will also replicate findings in an independent cohort of 750 Mexican American individuals from the Rio Grande Valley Family Study. The goal is to identify environmental risk factors for recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD) and to study human genotype×environment interactions, providing insights into MDD etiology and mechanisms. This research will utilize genomic tools in innovative ways and serve as a resource for training students in environmental genomics.

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