The DNA collected in each of the recruitment centers will be analyzed in a central facility. Key Terms related to genetic analysis can be obtained from the internet. The primary goal of the GEMS project is to identify major genes that are responsible for the metabolic syndrome. GW holds the intellectual property rights to any gene discovery, within the limits of the contract with the University of Texas. GW's goal is to use this information to develop new drugs to treat the metabolic syndrome.
Academic investigators hold publication rights to all discoveries.
Academic centers derive other benefits from the study. Investigators also hold the rights to discovery of candidate genes that contribute to the metabolic syndrome. In addition, the multi-center study allows for intellectual interactions among the outstanding group of investigators assembled for the study. This interaction should spawn further collaborative research among the investigators from different institutions. This collaborative research should expand the spectrum of problems raised by the concept of the metabolic syndrome.