While it is long-recognized that the social environment can influence the risk, manifestation, and trajectory of disease and associated symptoms, the underlying biological mechanisms remain understudied. On June 24, 2020, NINR partnered with colleagues across NIH to host the “Genomic Response to the Social Environment: Implications for Health Outcomes” workshop, which examined this research area.
The trans-disciplinary Workshop provided a platform to address the relationship among genomics (epigenomics, gene expression, microbiome, telomeres), social environmental factors, and both positive and negative health outcomes. Researchers from around the country delivered presentations on a diverse set of topics that crosscut diseases, populations, and the lifespan. Keynote speakers addressed the role of couples’ interactions, caregiving, and social isolation on immune function and gene expression profiles. Other speakers presented their research on topics such as wound healing, hypertension, preterm birth, and stress associated with bereavement, acculturation, and adverse childhood events.
The Workshop concluded with a moderated discussion and exchange of ideas addressing gaps and opportunities for further advancing a social genomics research strategy.
A recording of the full workshop is also available:
NINR gratefully acknowledges funding support from the NIH Office of Disease Prevention and the NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research for the workshop.
