PEOPLE with Hebridean ancestry are being asked to take part in a major genetic study, which could shed light on the causes of diseases such as cancer.
Experts have previously found that the genetic make-up of Hebridean people is different from the rest of Scotland.
This difference could allow researchers to investigate how variations in DNA influences health outcomes for those hailing from the archipelago.
Participants are required to have at least two grandparents from the Hebrides in order to take part in the study.
The University of Edinburgh study is looking for 2000 people to take part and they do not need to currently live in the Inner or Outer Hebrides.
It is hoped the study will give insight into the causes of diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke, and even has the potential to point researchers towards new treatments.
The research is being funded by the Medical Research Council and builds on the work of the Viking Genes study, which has recruited over 8000 volunteers who have ancestral connections to Orkney or Shetland.
Professor Jim Wilson, lead researcher and Chair of Human Genetics at the University of Edinburgh, said: “Expanding the Viking Genes study will allow us to explore the unique genetic heritage of the Inner and Outer Hebrides.
“We will explore how the distinct gene pools influence the risk of disease today and investigate the Norse, Scottish and Irish components of ancestry in the different Hebridean isles.”
Volunteers will be required to complete an online questionnaire about their health and lifestyle and return a saliva sample by post.
Researchers will then analyse the genetic information in the sample, with participants in the UK being given the option of receiving specific genetic information about themselves.
Provided in collaboration with the NHS this information could help prevent future disease.
The study is being undertaken by the University of Edinburgh in conjunction with Professor Zosia Miedzybrodzka from the University of Aberdeen and clinical geneticist Dr John Dean from NHS Grampian.
In 2012, Dr Wilson led a study which tested over 1000 Scots and discovered that the actor Tom Conti was related to Napoleon Bonaparte.
People who would like to take part can register their interest on the study’s website: https://www.ed.ac.uk/viking
