A large Canadian cohort provides insights into the genetic architecture of human hair colour
Researchers performed genome-wide association studies and meta-analyses to garner insight on regulatory mechanisms of hair colour variation and pigmentation biology. 12,996 genotyped CanPath participants were included in this study, along with their self-reported natural hair colour. The researchers fine-mapped significant loci throughout the genome, identifying multiple novel causal variants for hair colour.
Metabolomics and cancer preventive behaviors in the BC Generations Project
To better understand links between behaviours and cancer, researchers measured metabolites in blood samples from 1,319 BC Generations Project participants. The study found a large number of metabolites were different between health behaviours. Highlights include lower levels of metabolites that are involved in pathways that play a role in cancer development among participants who consumed more fruits and vegetables and had a healthy body weight.
The National Cancer Institute Cohort Consortium: An International Pooling Collaboration of 58 Cohorts from 20 Countries
The NCI Cohort Consortium was founded in 2001 and brings together 58 cancer epidemiology cohorts from 20 countries to undertake large-scale pooling research. This article outlines the structure, governance, methods of working, and the participating cohorts (including CanPath), publications and activities of the consortium.
Metabolic profiling of adherence to diet, physical activity and body size recommendations for cancer prevention
This study examined cross-sectional associations between metabolites and cancer preventive behaviors as well as the relevance to cancer-related pathways among 120 participants with no history of smoking or cancer. Cancer preventive behaviors were associated with complex metabolic signatures, including alterations in pathways known to be involved in cancer pathogenesis.
Allele-specific expression reveals interactions between genetic variation and environment
Combining whole-blood RNA-seq with extensive environmental annotations collected from 922 human individuals, we identified 35 GxE interactions, compared with only four using standard GxE interaction testing. EAGLE provides new opportunities for researchers to identify GxE interactions using functional genomic data.
Dietary assessment is a critical element of health research – Perspective from the Partnership for Advancing Nutritional and Dietary Assessment in Canada
This was an opinion based paper which argued that while assessing dietary intakes is difficult, it`s not impossible. They believe that building capacity and funding opportunities should be readily available in order to build research. If they were to have these, there would be better understanding in Canada and elsewhere.
Cohorts and consortia conference: a summary report (Banff, Canada, June 17–19, 2009)
This discussed how various cohort studies can build a strong network of research.