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Manna Lab
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About Manna Lab
The Manna Lab at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics (CCDG) focuses on identifying functional consequences of genetic variants at the cellular level and the molecular mechanism by which they impact human complex traits. The lab uses a combination of molecular approaches, cellular modeling, and next-generation sequencing techniques. Dr. Manna is also a member of the Samoan Obesity, Lifestyle, and Genetic Adaptations (OLAGA) Study Group.
Latest News
- Coming soon.
Lab Team
- Samantha Manna, PI
- Fang Liu, Lab Manager
Projects
Functional Studies of Genome-Wide Associations Studies (GWAS) Variation
While identifying gene variants that contribute to risk is a crucial first step to understanding the genetics of any disease, identification alone does not tell the full story. We use in vitro models to evaluate the cellular and molecular effects of gene variants associated with complex traits, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, focusing on gene expression and metabolism.
Characterizing CREBRF
Many genes in the human genome are minimally characterized, if at all, when it comes to their function. One such gene is CREBRF, which is thought to be important for a variety of key cellular processes, including transcription and metabolism. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have found variation in this gene to be associated with a host of cardiometabolic traits in Pacific Islanders, while dysregulation of microRNA-CREBRF axes have been implicated in cancer. By studying CREBRF expression in response to a variety of conditions (upstream) and the effects of manipulating the gene itself (downstream), we are able to gain a more comprehensive picture of what this gene does at a cellular level.
Oral health in Samoa
Oral health is strongly linked to systemic health. In collaboration with the Obesity, Lifestyle, and Genetic Adaptations (OLaGA) Study Group, we are collecting survey data from participants in the “Ola Tuputupua’e” (Growing Up) Study to learn more about oral health and oral hygiene habits and behaviors in Samoa.
Publications
Contact Info & Location
Samantha Manna, PhD
412-624-4967
slr61@pitt.edu
Bridgeside Point, Suite 400
Salk Pavilion, Floor 4