Grant: CIHR Fellowship

Hematuria, the presence of blood in urine, can indicate a range of health issues, from minor infections to serious kidney and bladder diseases. However, we know that its causes and symptoms can differ greatly among people of different genetic ancestral backgrounds, as well as between men and women. Unfortunately, most of the existing genetic research on hematuria has been done in people of European ancestry, leaving significant gaps in understanding for other populations. This lack of diverse data means that health professionals may not have the best tools to accurately diagnose or treat hematuria in people from different backgrounds. Our research seeks to fill this gap by studying the genetics of hematuria across five large cohorts including individuals belonging to a wide range of ancestral backgrounds. We will analyze data from over 100K individuals with hematuria and over 1 million individuals without it, representing people of African, East Asian, South Asian, European, and Hispanic ancestry. By identifying specific genomic regions that increase the risk of hematuria in each of these populations, and by conducting sex-specific analyses, we aim to understand how genetic factors influence the condition in different groups. In addition, we will explore how certain molecules in the body, called metabolites, may contribute to the development of hematuria. The results of this study could lead to better, more personalized ways to diagnose and treat hematuria. For example, we may discover genomic regions that help doctors identify people at higher risk for this condition, allowing for earlier intervention. Moreover, the study could uncover new treatment approaches that take into account a person's genetic background, ultimately improving health outcomes for diverse populations. In the long run, this research aims to provide more accurate and equitable healthcare solutions for kidney and urinary tract diseases, benefiting individuals across Canada and beyond.