Study in the Hebrides to explore the relationship between disease and genes

People with at least two grandparents from the Scottish Hebrides are being asked to participate in a large genetic study.

 

The Hebrides' particular gene pool could shed light on the causes of diseases such as stroke, diabetes, heart disease and cancer, and in time may lead to new treatments for the general population, the researchers said.

The genetic makeup of the islanders - which previous research has shown to be different from the rest of Scotland - will allow researchers to study how variations in Hebridean DNA affect the health of locals.

The University of Edinburgh study, which will recruit 2,000 people, is not limited to people living in the Inner or Outer Hebrides, but also includes people with Hebridean grandparents living anywhere in the world.

 

Expanding the Viking Genes study will allow us to explore the unique genetic heritage of the Inner and Outer Hebrides. We will explore how the distinct gene pools influence the risk of disease today and investigate the Norse, Scottish and Irish components of ancestry in the different Hebridean isles.

Genetic analysis for the prevention of future diseases

Participants will be asked to complete an online questionnaire about their health and lifestyle and submit a saliva sample that researchers will use for genetic analysis.

Volunteers living in the United Kingdom can choose to receive specific genetic information from their saliva sample. This information, provided in collaboration with the NHS, could help prevent future diseases.

The MRC-funded research builds on the work of the Viking Genes study, which recruited more than 8,000 volunteers with Orkney or Shetland ancestry.

The study also involves the University of Aberdeen and NHS Grampian clinical genetics physicians Professor Zosia Miedzybrodzka and Dr. John Dean.

Related Links

Register your interest in the study

MRC Human Genetics Unit

Viking Genes