Genomics/Genetics Research Working Group
Mission
The influence of host genetics on the acquisition of HIV infection as well as on disease progression and its subsequent clinical manifestations has been studied for many years; however, we have only just begun to understand the relationship between host co-factors and HIV. Several strategies, including genome wide association studies (GWAS) and siRNA screens, have been employed to investigate host pathways exploited by HIV as well as intrinsic host defense mechanisms, leading to new scientific opportunities and a renewed focus in this area. .
The NIH Office of AIDS Research is establishing the Genetics/Genomics Research Working Group (GRWG) to provide critical expertise and strategic direction regarding the research agenda and overall scientific priorities for this field.
The GRWG will assist the OAR and the NIH in the following activities:
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providing critical independent expert guidance and advice to NIH and other relevant governmental and non-governmental entities on HIV genetics research
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serving as a bridge to stimulate and facilitate research collaborations
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examining the analytic validity and potential clinical utility of candidate genes
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regularly reviewing the current state of GWAS and other genetic studies/other ‘omics, including new technologies and methodologies being employed to look at genetics and HIV
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providing advice on the establishment of cohorts/issues, gaps and repositories
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developing consensus on issues of informed consent
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advising on ways that NIH can educate the HIV community about genetic studies (address deficiencies in genetic knowledge, and regulations to protect genetic data)
Structure and Administration
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The GRWG will be composed of non-government members from academia, industry, foundations, and community constituency groups with expertise in areas such as pathogenesis, immunology, genetics, non-human primate research, and biostatistics. Ad hoc expertise may be added as necessary.
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The OAR Director will appoint the GRWG Chair. The OAR senior scientific staff responsible for Etiology and Pathogenesis will staff the GRWG and serve as its Executive Secretary. The OAR will provide administrative support to the GRWG.
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Representatives of federal government agencies (including NIH, CDC, DoD, VA, and FDA) and relevant non-governmental organizations and community constituency groups will be invited to participate.
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Topics for possible discussion/consideration may be submitted to the Executive Secretariat by any government or non-government entity supporting genetic/genomics studies in HIV/AIDS.
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The GRWG will meet approximately 3 times a year, as necessary, and some meetings will be held by teleconference.
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