Diabetes Research Center · MGH
The Leong Team applies human genetics, deep phenotyping, and clinical investigation to the detection, classification, and treatment of diabetes.
Our Mission
“Our research program integrates human genetics, physiology, and clinical investigation to advance precision diabetes care. Through collaborative research spanning international consortia, biobanks linked to electronic health records, large-scale population cohorts, and deeply phenotyped clinical studies, we seek to understand the biological mechanisms underlying diabetes and translate these discoveries into clinically actionable strategies. Our mission is to develop and implement precision medicine approaches that improve the prevention, early detection, diagnosis, classification, and treatment of diabetes. Ultimately, we strive to improve health outcomes and enable more personalized, equitable care for people living with diabetes.” — Aaron Leong, MD, MSc
Human Studies
Active studies
PROGRESS
PhaRmacogenetics Of the Glycemic RESponse to SGLT2 inhibitors
Investigating whether genetic variation informs SGLT2-inhibitor treatment response.
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CGM-A1c
CGM-A1c Genetics
Examining genetic contributions to discordance between HbA1c and continuous glucose monitoring measures.
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TARGET
Targeted Assessment through Recall by Genotype
Recall-by-genotype design for deep phenotyping across genetic risk groups.
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COVID
Diabetes genetics & COVID-19 severity
Examining the genetics underlying diabetes-related complications in acute COVID-19.
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PATHS-T1D
Polygenic Assessment and Autoimmunity Testing for Health-System Screening of Type 1 Diabetes
Using polygenic risk scores to identify adults for early autoimmune diabetes screening.
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PATHS-T2D
Polygenic Assessment and Testing of Heterogeneity and Subtypes in Type 2 Diabetes
Investigating genetically defined subtypes of type 2 diabetes and their clinical relevance.
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Our Team









