The ACoRN research program calls for the continued development of genetic research projects that rely on gene mapping and functional genomics technologies. The major objective of ACoRN under WV-INBRE is to support the research of three separate subprojects: (1) Obesity Associated Cardiovascular Disease (OCARD), (2) Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia (FCHL) and (3) Familial Hypertriglyceridemia (FHTG). Although these subprojects are separate entities, we have chosen to use a team approach in the ascertainment of the susceptibility loci. The ACoRN team is directed by Donald Primerano PhD (304-696-7338) and consists of project investigators, consultants and mentors from the lead institutions with expertise in genetic mapping, statistical genetics, genotyping, cardiovascular physiology and molecular biology. The ACoRN Team meets several times each year to discuss genotyping and statistical methods of analysis as well as recruitment of patients into its studies. WV-INBRE also supports the Marshall University Genomics Core Facility which provides gene expression profiling, automated DNA Sequencing and genotypic analysis for ACORN and other WV-INBRE projects.

ACoRN Research Projects

Obesity Associated Cardiovascular Disease (OCARD): The objective of this project is to identify OCARD genes using family-based linkage analysis and population-based association methods. We have prepared a master list of candidate genes and begun determination of genotypes at the candidate loci.

Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia: FCHL is defined by elevation of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and is one of the most common familial dyslipidemias. The overall objective of this project is to identify gene(s) that predispose to FCHL using family-based linkage analysis. We have devised a plan for recruitment of FCHL families and human subject protocols have been submitted to the WVU and CAMC IRB review boards. We will begin enrolling FCHL subjects in summer 2005.

Familial Hypertriglyceridemia: Individuals with FHTG have elevated levels of triglycerides and normal total cholesterol and the disease is thought to segregate as an autosomal dominant disorder. We will identify FHTG patients in our screens for FCHL families and will prepare human subject protocols in WV-INBRE year 6.