- What is genomics?
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A broad definition of Genomics is the study of all of a person's genes (the genome), including interactions of those genes with each other and with the person's environment. We are only studying the genome and not interaction with the environment.
- Read the National Human Genome Research Institute's A Brief Guide to Genomics for more information.
- Watch: Introducing Genomics in Healthcare
- What is GWAS?
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GWAS studies the entire set of DNA (the genome) of a large group of people, searching for small variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs (pronounced “snips”).
- I understand DNA studies can be used to identify me or even family members. Is that true in this study?
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A possible risk is the loss of confidentiality about your medical information. A related possible risk is disclosure of genetic results where insurance or employment could be discriminatory. We will take steps to protect your privacy. These include:
- DNA samples will not be labeled with your name or other easily identified numbers like social security numbers.
- Your samples will be coded (assigned a unique study number) which will allow the researchers to link your sample to the other information that you provide through questionnaires or other study activities.
- The key to the code linking you to your DNA samples will be maintained in confidential files with standard security precautions. The key is used only to connect other information you provide to your DNA sample. The key to the code will never leave George Washington University.
- Some of the tests performed on your samples may be done by affiliated researchers or laboratories outside of George Washington University, but they will never know who you are or have access to the code linking samples to you.
