Core Programs

The Duke Center for Human Genetics brings together faculty with clinical, molecular, and analytical expertise. This interdisciplinary approach, in an environment of close integration, leads to innovative approaches and solutions. Through partnerships with scientists and health care professionals worldwide, we are accelerating both the discovery of genes involved in human disease and the application of these findings to advance health care.

Our research process begins with families. We rely on patient volunteers to participate in our studies. Our clinical staff of genetic counselors, physician assistants, and nurses meets with study participants to collect blood or tissue samples for genetic analysis and record their health histories.

The Center is home to one of the largest US academic DNA banks employing the most sophisticated laboratory equipment available. Once biological samples arrive at our facility, laboratory technicians isolate and then store the DNA. All biological material, health histories and research data are kept secure and anonymous.

We analyze clinical, family, and DNA sequence information to seek out hidden genetic patterns of various disorders. This analysis is extremely intricate and time-consuming. To expedite research, we employ powerful computer technology and develop state-of-the-art methods to interpret and understand genetic data.

Finally, our research returns to the patients and their families. The faculty works with physicians, health care providers, genetic-testing companies, and pharmaceutical corporations to use our findings to improve patient care.

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