Wen-Chi Hsueh, M.P.H., Ph.D.

The theme of our research focuses on genetic epidemiological studies of complex phenotypes, in particular aging- and metabolism-related traits in humans. Through the use of extended families and large cohorts of unrelated individuals, the goal of our research is to identify susceptibility genes, environmental risk factors, and their patterns of interaction for traits of interest. We employ epidemiological principles, statistical tools and bioinformatics to perform linkage analysis and genetic association studies. Study populations include extended families from the Old Order Amish and large cohorts from the US and Mexico with extensive information from prospective long-term longitudinal follow-ups or national surveys.

Current projects and collaborations include the following:

• Genetic epidemiology of diurnal preference and its relationship with aging
• Genetic epidemiology of telomere length and its relationship with aging
• Candidate gene studies of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and longevity

The hope is that findings from these studies will contribute to a better understanding of the disease etiology. Furthermore, they may have significant implications on disease treatment and prevention strategies, such as identifying populations at high risk and providing "tailored" preventive or therapeutic strategies to patients with specific genetic profiles.