Successes

Mission

Our mission is to discover genetic influences on human health and foster the application of this knowledge to the practice of medicine.

Human Genetics and Disease

Genetics is the source of most common and chronic human diseases. Disorders such as eye diseases, Neural Tube Defects, and heart disease profoundly affect millions worldwide. They are the primary cause of illness and/or death in developed countries.

Sometimes the genetic influence in human disease is simple: one gene causes one disease. More commonly, the influence is highly complex and a combination of genes in addition to environmental factors can significantly render a person more susceptible to illness.

The Duke Center for Human Genetics is an international leader in the study of inherited disorders. Our faculty and staff investigate genetic and environmental influences on human disease in a uniquely integrated research setting. Our long-term goal is to witness the incorporation of genetic research findings to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.

We believe genetics is the future of health care. Understanding the root causes of human illness allows scientists and physicians to develop better treatments. Genetic research may uncover ways to slow the progression of a disease or prevent symptoms from ever appearing. Our purpose is to unlock genetic mysteries and to devote these insights to the improvement of human health.

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