A Unique Approach to Common Diseases

The Ashkenazi Genome Consortium (TAGC) represents the combined efforts of more than a dozen genetics investigators to rapidly accelerate research across the full spectrum of medicine, and to advance personal genomics from idea to reality.

The Ashkenazi Jewish population is medically important because of its unique history and relative isolation. Founded from effectively just 300-400 individuals less than 1000 years ago, the Ashkenazi population has a more uniform genetic background compared to most other populations. By studying genetics in this population, we aim to identify mutations that may increase risk of common diseases in all populations. Our areas of interest include schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and longevity.