Genome Instability: A Common Link in Gulf War Illness Patients

This project is based on the premise of developing a new method to identify and establish the presence of phenotypic diversity/genetic heterogeneity in Gulf War Illness patients. In our previous research, we successfully established a link between genomic instability (displayed as elevated frequencies of non clonal chromosome aberrations or NCCAs) and cancer progression. In this DOD supported grant during the current study period, we have analyzed GWI patient samples using multiple-color spectral karyotype profiling or SKY and expression profiles. Elevated NCCAs have been observed in all GWI patient samples tested so far representing a highly statistically significant finding. We have tested 15 GWI patients and 35 controls to date. We believe that our methodology represents a means to identify a clinical biomarker based on phenotypic diversity/heterogeneity in GWI patients. We are developing a theory that links stress to the increased genome instability observed. This new concept and findings will support future translational projects that will result in vastly improving diagnosis and assessment of GWI patients.