Genetics of Intrinsic Capacity

This is a collaborative project between Professor Renuka Visvanathan and Dr Azmeraw Amare who leads the Genetics Epidemiology research group at the University of Adelaide. 

This project aims to elucidate the detailed biological basis of human intrinsic capacity (IC) including genetic, environmental, and gene-environment interaction mechanisms underlying IC.

Using datasets from international biobanks, we have already developed an IC index score, e.g. for the UK Biobank study participants (N=500,000). In the next phases of the project, we will estimate the genetic heritability of IC, explore genetic markers and characterize the biological pathways associated with IC. Next, we will assess the contribution of environmental factors to IC using gene-environment (G x E) interaction analyses and construct a theoretical model for IC to highlight its implications for scientific research in healthy aging, mental well-being, and disability.

The foundational knowledge gained from this project can be used to develop improved and cost-effective health interventions, broadly applicable both globally and within Australia, to promote healthy aging and general well-being. In the long term, our discoveries regarding the fundamental processes underlying IC could serve as the basis for new philosophical theories in the sectors of healthy aging, mental health well-being, and disability.

Collaborators include Professor John Beard, Professor Matteo Cesari and Dr Olga Theou.  

Recent publications