Inherited disorders and genetic diseases that are due to mutations in one or more genes cause economic loss and suffering in both humans and animals. Disorders can range from the loss of entire chromosomes to small changes in a single gene. Some disorders are complex because they may result from mutations in multiple genes, as is true for many cancers. In other cases, the inheritance pattern may be complicated because of differential penetrance resulting from environmental influences. The understanding of how variation in one or more genes leads to disease and the resulting implementation of this knowledge are key driving forces of the scientific and industrial communities. Recent advances in molecular genetics and associated technologies have greatly enhanced our ability to identify and characterize disease genes and pathways.

Research groups at MSU use cutting-edge and multidisciplinary approaches, and have access to DNA sequencing, microarray, proteomic, and bioinformatic core facilities. Efforts on human diseases, investigation of animal models of human disease, disease pathology in humans and animals, gene mapping, genetic selection, and the influence of environmental factors are just a few of the research areas that students may pursue. The high amount of formal and informal interactions between groups ensures a rich experience.