At The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, we know that research holds the key to the future of medicine. Learn more about the topics of research we study every day at The Feinstein Institute.
The field of human genetics and genomics is expanding faster than any other area of science, and our findings are leading to whole new understandings of a myriad of diseases and normal human states.
At the Feinstein Institute’s Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, our scientists are combing the genome to find risk genes for a number of common human conditions – from autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, to Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. We are also pursuing the identification of genes for absolute pitch and a fascinating sensory condition called synesthesia, as well as other human traits related to memory and cognition.
Our scientists have played a major role in identifying the risk genes involved in systemic lupus erythematosus, and we are leading or participating in international efforts to define the genetics of autoimmune diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Myasthenia Gravis, Alopecia Areata, Polymyositis, and IgA deficiency.
In addition to these genetic studies, the Boas Center has developed robotic facilities for the preparation, storage and distribution of biospecimens, including large collections of DNA. This is complemented by a state of the art bioinformatics team that is able to create custom data management systems for Feinstein Investigators. These resources have enabled the Feinstein Institute to spearhead a new program known as the BioGene Cohort Program – a comprehensive approach to enlisting patients throughout North Shore-LIJ Health System to allow their DNA specimens to be linked to medical information. This will facilitate rapid discovery of new relationships between genetic variation and medical conditions, treatment responses and outcome, and ultimately, become the first step in developing a truly personalized approach to medical care.
The Feinstein Institute’s Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics comprises:
- Laboratory of Genomics and Human Genetics
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology
- North American Rheumatoid Arthritis Consortium (NARAC)
- Multiple Autoimmune Disease Genetics Consortium (MADGC)
- New York Rheumatoid Arthritis Registry
Principal investigators for genetic research include Peter Davies, PhD; Betty Diamond, MD; Peter K. Gregersen, MD; Percio S. Gulko, MD; Annette T. Lee, PhD; Todd Lencz, PhD; Jeffrey M. Lipton, MD, PhD and Anil Malhotra, MD.