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Our Research
At CariGenetics, we're not just studying genes; we're uncovering the stories they tell about our shared Caribbean heritage. Our research dives deep into the genetic tapestry of Caribbean ancestry, seeking to understand the unique genetic markers, variations, and patterns that define us.
Our human studies are multifaceted and encompass a range of critical areas:
Disease Predisposition
We aim to understand why certain diseases are more prevalent in the Caribbean community. By discovering new genetic markers, we can provide insights into disease prevention and early detection strategies tailored specifically for our community.
Pharmacogenomics
Medications are not one-size-fits-all. Our research in this area seeks to understand how individuals of Caribbean descent metabolise and respond to medications, paving the way for personalised medicine that’s more effective and has fewer side effects.
Ancestry
Beyond health, our genes carry the tales of our ancestors. We’re mapping the genetic journey of the Caribbean diaspora, tracing migration patterns, and uncovering shared histories.
Genetic Traits
From our physical attributes to our inherent talents, our genes play a role. We’re exploring the genetic basis of certain traits common in the Caribbean community, celebrating the diversity and uniqueness of our genetic makeup.
The significance of our studies is profound.
For too long, the global genetic narrative has been dominated by European-centric research, leaving a vast majority of the world’s population underrepresented. Our work seeks to redress this imbalance, ensuring that the Caribbean community is no longer an afterthought in genetic research but a focal point.
By understanding our genes, we can unlock a wealth of knowledge about our health, our history, and our future. Join us on this exciting journey of discovery as we redefine what’s known about Caribbean genetics.
Join Our Study
Be a part of groundbreaking research. Discover studies you can participate in and make a difference.
COMPLETE
PILOT STUDY
Caribbean Breast Cancer Whole Genome Study
Duration:
9 months
Eligibility:
Women 18+ with 4 Caribbean grandparents
Location:
Estimated Participants:
100 participants
Estimated Completion:
Estimated – March 31, 2024
Design:
Novel Genetic Marker Discovery
Conducted by:
The Study:
Among the top 10 countries with the highest breast cancer mortality, four are in the Caribbean, with Barbados at the top. However, to date, there has been no study to identify unique genetic markers for breast cancer in Caribbean women. CariGenetics is recruiting 50 female patients with breast cancer and 50 matched female controls without a history of cancer, to provide proof of principle and establish an experimental pipeline for data collection and analysis with potential to scale up to wider breast cancer cohorts in the Caribbean. Whole genome sequencing will be performed to look for causative breast cancer disease genes and link genetics to clinical phenotypes.
The Goal:
To identify unique breast cancer genetic markers for Caribbean women that will allow for more specific predictive screening and earlier intervention.
Press Release:
PILOT STUDY
Caribbean Prostate Cancer Whole Genome Study
Duration:
12 – 24 months
Eligibility:
Men 18+ with 4 Caribbean grandparents
Location:
Estimated Participants:
1000 participants
Estimated Completion:
Estimated – December 31, 2024
Design:
Novel Genetic Marker Discovery
Conducted by:
The Study:
Among the top 10 countries with the highest prostate cancer deaths, seven are in the Caribbean. However, to date, there has been no study to identify unique germline genetic markers for prostate cancer in Caribbean men. CariGenetics is recruiting 500 male patients with prostate cancer and 500 matched male controls without a history of cancer. Whole genome sequencing will be performed to look for causative prostate cancer disease genes and link genetics to clinical phenotypes.
The Goal:
To identify unique prostate cancer genetic markers for Caribbean men that will allow for more specific predictive screening and earlier intervention.
Study Presentation:
PILOT STUDY
Caribbean Cardiovascular Disease Whole Genome Study
Duration:
9 months
Eligibility:
Trinidadian 18+
Location:
Estimated Participants:
500 participants
Estimated Completion:
Estimated – December 31, 2024
Design:
Novel Genetic Marker Discovery
Conducted by:
The Study:
The Caribbean has the highest rates of cardiovascular disease in the Americas. However, to date, there has been no study to identify unique germline genetic markers for cardiovascular disease in Caribbean people. CariGenetics, working with the University of Trinidad & Tobago, will conduct whole genome sequencing (WGS) on 500 participants from a previous study looking at cardiovascular genetic markers. WGS will be performed to look for novel causative cardiovascular disease genes and link genetics to clinical phenotypes.
The Goal:
To identify unique cardiovascular disease genetic markers for Caribbean people that will allow for more specific predictive screening and earlier intervention.
COMING SOON
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Caribbean Pharmacogenetics Implementation Study
COMING SOON
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Caribbean Chronic Kidney Disease Whole Genome Study
Be a Research Collaborator
CariGenetics is looking to expand its studies across the entire Caribbean and its diaspora. We are always looking to collaborate with research partners to achieve our mission. Please fill in the information below if you are interested in making history with us to improve healthcare in the Caribbean!