Zongtai Wu
PhD Student (Molecules to Health Records) at University of Cambridge
I earned my BA in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, followed by an MPhil in Biological Sciences. My MPhil research focused on leveraging machine learning and protein network analysis to enhance disease diagnosis. I am deeply interested in the intersection of genomics and computational methods, with a focus on identifying hidden connections between the molecular traits and guide the diagnosis of complex diseases.
Project Information
Research Driver Programme: Molecules to Health Records
Project Title: Integrative Multi-Omic Analysis of Polygenic Scores for Enhanced Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prediction and Therapeutic Targeting
Summary:
This project aims to enhance the prediction and understanding of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by combining polygenic scores (PGS) with data from multiple biological layers, including genes, proteins, and metabolites.
PGS aggregate the effects of numerous genetic variants to estimate an individual’s predisposition to disease. By integrating this genetic data with large-scale multi-omic datasets, we hope to improve the diagnostic accuracy of CVD. Additionally, by combining PGS with omics data and advanced causality analysis methods, we aim to uncover key molecular drivers that directly influence disease onset and progression.
What was your motivation for undertaking this project and how does HDR UK funding support your research?
My motivation for pursuing this project stems from a desire to address pressing healthcare challenges. It’s an exciting time to be working in this field, as we are entering an era marked by the power of big data and AI. The convergence of these technologies with genomics and electronic health records offers an unprecedented opportunity to study the complexities of cardiovascular disease on a deeper level than ever before. My goal is to harness this data-driven potential to enhance disease prediction, diagnosis, and treatment.
The funding for this research allows me to dedicate myself fully to these efforts, using the most advanced techniques in genomics and biomolecular science to address one of the most complex challenges in healthcare. I am eager to contribute solutions that not only push the boundaries of science but also have the potential to significantly reduce the burden on society.