We're pleased to share that a recent genetic study on Crohn's disease (CD) has been published in the Journal of Crohn's and Colitis (Impact Factor: 8.0) on July 31, 2023.
This Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS), focusing on large Korean populations, aimed to uncover the genetic complexities behind Crohn's disease. The study identified two new CD loci; the first association was found near the ZBTB38 gene, and the second within the leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor (LILR) gene cluster.
The CD-risk variants within the LILR locus were identified as quantitative trait loci (QTL) for multiple LILR genes. Notably, LILRB2, a gene in the LILR cluster, interacts directly with various ligands, including MHC class I molecules. The study revealed a significant interaction between the LILR and TAP2 loci. The TAP2 variant, associated with the antigen presentation of MHC class I molecules, showed increased CD-risk effects in individuals carrying more risk alleles of the LILR lead variant.
In summary, this GWAS has unveiled two novel susceptibility loci for Crohn's disease and highlighted the intricate interplay between genetic variants in the LILR and TAP2 loci. These findings contribute to our understanding of the genetic basis of CD, offering potential avenues for further research and targeted interventions.
https://doi.org/10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad127 Kwangwoo took on a pivotal role as the first and corresponding author in this project, with the fantastic collaboration with Prof. Chang Kyun Lee (co-corresponding author) and Prof. Shin Ju Oh (co-first author). Junho Lee, Ayeong Kwon, and Chae-Yeon Yu contributed significantly to various data analyses.
Congratulations to the entire team!