Gangnam Severance Professor Ahn Cheol-woo's Team Leads Development of Early Diagnosis Technology for Environmental Diseases

Yonsei University, Korea University, Kosin University, and NHN Consortium Finally Selected for Large-Scale Ministry of Environment National Project

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Professor Ahn Cheol-woo's team from the Department of Endocrinology at Yonsei University Gangnam Severance Hospital announced on the 5th that they have recently been selected for the Ministry of Environment's 'Core Technology Development Project for Prevention and Management of Environmental Diseases.'

Through the project titled 'Development of Environmental Disease Sensitivity Prediction Technology Based on Genomic Analysis,' Professor Ahn's team will analyze SNPs (Single nucleotide polymorphisms ? genetic variations showing differences in a single nucleotide sequence in DNA) related to environmental diseases and harmful factors, and develop a database system for discovery and an SNP detection RT-PCR kit.

Professor Ahn's team has formed a consortium with Korea University, Kosin University, and NHN Cloud to conduct research on five major environmental diseases (atopy, asthma, dementia, arrhythmia, and hypothyroidism). This research is expected to elucidate the complex correlations between environmental harmful factors and the genome and suggest the possibility of early diagnosis of environmental diseases. The total research budget is 6 billion KRW, and the research period extends until December 31, 2026.

With rapid industrialization and urbanization recently, the correlation of environmental factors has been revealed not only in atopic dermatitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis but also in dementia, arrhythmia, and hypothyroidism. Accordingly, fundamental cause analysis and preventive management measures for environmental diseases are required. Professor Ahn stated, "By predicting and preparing for environmental diseases through this project, we can reduce labor and medical costs caused by disease onset and contribute to the health promotion of the entire population socially." He added, "Moreover, it is expected to protect vulnerable groups in areas with severe environmental pollution or high exposure to harmful factors."

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