Emory School of Medicine teams with deCODE Genetics to study link between genes a...( ters facility in Reykjavik as well as ...)

Using large-scale genotyping, deCODE scientists are generating genetic fingerprints of each chromosome of the volunteer participants in its disease gene research, in order to identify small segments of chromosomes shared by patients with a particular disease. Genotypes are compared between closely and distantly related disease sufferers. More detailed genotyping of these small regions enables the identification of particular genes or sections of genes linked that play a role in the disease.

Armed with these important genetic clues from the Icelandic population, the Emory scientists will conduct their own research studies within Emory's diverse group of patients to uncover the full range of mutations or versions of these genes that might predispose individuals to disease.

"The information deCODE provides is equivalent to telling us how to get to the stadium when we know that the Superbowl is being played," says Emory neurologist David Rye, M.D., Ph.D. "The relationship with Emory will allow the deCODE/Emory alliance to find the section, row and seat more efficiently."

"The clinical and basic research expertise and experience within Emory's School of Medicine covers a wide spectrum of diseases and will contribute a tremendous amount of information about the role genes play in diseases within U.S. populations," said Stephen Warren, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Human Genetics in Emory University School of Medicine. "Combined with deCODE's significant genetic discoveries in Iceland, this alliance brings outstanding opportunities to every medical specialty at Emory to rapidly advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying numerous complex diseases."

DeCODE scientists have made several significant genetic discoveries over the past several years that should prove useful in Emory research collaboration
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Contact: Holly Korschun
hkorsch@emory.edu
404-727-3990
Emory University Health Sciences Center
13-Aug-2002