Genetics & Other Diseases

As a genetic study we do a lot of important research in this field. Our genetic makeup has a huge influence on all of our lives, and can link to many health conditions. Read about some of our research which is helping to understand how our genetics and environment influences our health.

kidney scientific microscope image

Generation Scotland volunteer data used in large scale study that identifies a new gene location impacting kidney function.

Newborn blood spots from a small sample of 98 Generation Scotland volunteers were tested to see if they could be used for health research on a national scale.

Abstract photo of DNA

By analysing the blood of over 9000 of our volunteers, researchers may have found a new way to predict when some health conditions might develop.

Analysing changes to DNA in the blood can improve the ability to predict a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes within a decade.

The research, including Generation Scotland volunteer data, found variations in genes that can affect a person's risk of getting gallstone disease.

woman smiling on a sofa

Research, including Generation Scotland volunteer data, identifies nearly 300 variations in genes that can affect reproductive lifespan in women.

Image of a cigarette

The research, led by Carmen Amador at the University of Edinburgh, analysed genome sequence data from over 18,000 of our volunteers.

person with liver disease (animated)

The research combined Generation Scotland volunteer data with data from the UK Biobank. It showed that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can be identified from hospital and GP records.

test tubes in rows

Researchers suggest a £10 test, looking at blood proteins could potentially be used as an early-warning system to avoid heart disease, stroke or other heart conditions. 

A nurse and patient testing for diabetes.

A large scale genetic study, including our volunteers data, has found more regions of the genome linked to type 2 diabetes traits by using volunteer data from around the world and bringing it together.

Portion of a scottish map looking at genetically similar people

Generation Scotland volunteer data has helped discover that people's genetics from across Scotland today still have similarities to distant ancestors.

image of blood vessels

This disease is caused by damage to the blood vessels that supply the brain. A study, including more than 1,000 Generation Scotland volunteers data has found that early life experiences can affect cerebral small vessel disease risk.