GEMINI Study Identifies Genetic Links to Multimorbidity, Offering New Pathways for Prevention and Treatment

GEMINI Study Identifies Genetic Links to Multimorbidity, Offering New Pathways for Prevention and Treatment

(IN BRIEF) The GEMINI study, the largest of its kind, has revealed significant genetic overlaps in 72 long-term health conditions related to aging. Conducted by the University of Exeter Medical School and funded by the Medical Research Council and the National Institute for Health Research, the study analyzed the genetic and clinical data of over three million people from the UK and Spain. By identifying genetic connections between multiple conditions, the study offers potential for new prevention strategies and treatments for multimorbidity, which affects millions in the UK. The research found that conditions like B12 and iron deficiency contribute to the development of multiple long-term conditions. The findings suggest a path towards personalized care, improving patient outcomes and easing healthcare service burdens.

(PRESS RELEASE) EXETER, 8-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A groundbreaking study, the largest of its kind, has identified new possibilities for treating and preventing multiple long-term health conditions that often overlap in later life. The study, which analyzed millions of genetic and patient records, presents a major opportunity to improve the care of individuals living with multiple conditions, known as multimorbidity, which affects nine million people in the UK alone. This group accounts for half of the NHS budget, highlighting the critical need for more efficient treatments and preventive measures.

Led by the University of Exeter Medical School and funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the GEMINI study analyzed both genetic and clinical data from over three million people across the UK and Spain. The findings, published today in eBioMedicine, uncover significant genetic overlaps in 72 long-term health conditions associated with aging. The research aimed to pinpoint which specific genes are linked to multiple conditions, offering insights into how we might prevent or delay the onset of multimorbidity. By examining over 2,500 combinations of conditions, the study has identified genetic factors that help explain why certain conditions are more likely to occur together in the same patient.

Dr. Joao Delgado, a lead researcher at the University of Exeter Medical School, emphasized the significance of the study: “For the first time, we’ve merged genetic and clinical data on an unprecedented scale to explore the role of genes in the development of multiple conditions. This approach could unlock opportunities to repurpose existing drugs or lifestyle interventions to prevent or delay multimorbidity. Our findings highlight treatable conditions like B12 and iron deficiencies that contribute to the development of multiple long-term conditions. This could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for patients, improving prevention and care.”

The research aligns with recent priorities set out by the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Chris Whitty, who identified multimorbidity as a key area for future research.

Professor Jane Masoli, co-author of the study, added: “One of the challenges in treating overlapping health conditions is that clinical services often focus on individual diseases, rather than addressing the complex reality of multimorbidity. Until now, research has typically looked at one condition at a time. This study provides a platform for investigating the causes of overlapping conditions and will help accelerate medical advancements to improve care. By treating individuals holistically, rather than focusing on separate diseases, we can enhance quality of life for those living with multiple conditions and ease the strain on healthcare services.”

The paper, titled A Systematic Analysis of the Contribution of Genetics to Multimorbidity and Comparisons with Primary Care Data, has been published in eBioMedicine. The research received support from the NIHR Exeter Biomedical Research Centre and the Applied Research Collaboration South West Peninsula (PenARC).

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SOURCE: University of Exeter